Many Jackson evacuees don’t know where to go

On the fourth day of an evacuation order for residents of Budge Drive, many evacuees say they’re frustrated with the lack of housing options available to them.

“This was a big surprise, so, (don’t) really have any plans,” said Daniel Casillas, who rents an apartment on Budge Drive.

Wednesday night, most of Budge Drive’s 60 residents evacuated after officials reported movement on the hillside.

Budge Drive resident Kevin Larsen said he’s been staying at the Antler Inn for the past few days for free through an arrangement with the Red Cross. However, he said Saturday night may be his last free night.

“It’s nice that the hotel’s giving us the room, but not knowing when you have to move out sucks,” said Larsen.

Larsen said a major reason he moved to Budge Drive was because of the relatively inexpensive living costs. He said he’s unable to afford a permanent move at the moment.

“I paid my rent a day before this happened and I don’t have $2,000 to go find another place to live,” said Larsen.

The Red Cross tells Local News 8 it will set up a shelter in the exhibit hall of the Teton County Fairgrounds Sunday at 6 p.m. Larsen said he was hoping it wouldn’t come to this.

“I just don’t want to sleep in a room with a group of people that I don’t know,” said Larsen.

Larsen said he may return to his home by hiking up the hillside unless he can find a more desirable place to stay.

While officials can do nothing to stop him, they’re cautioning against this.

“We highly recommend that nobody reoccupy at this time,” said Willy Watsabaugh, with Jackson Hole Fire EMS. “We do not have the ability to provide public safety. We may not be able to get ambulances, fire trucks up here.”

If residents need shelter, they’re asked to contact the Red Cross at 307-690-3714.

The Red Cross said it’s accepting donations on its website, www.redcross.org.