Mahaska County Board of Supervisors Discuss Disaster Planning
Oskaloosa, IA – The Mahaska County Board of Supervisors, discussed updates to the county’s hazard mitigation plan during their recent meeting. This step ensures that the county remains eligible for federal grants and is prepared to address potential disasters effectively.
Key Highlights from the Meeting
Hazard Mitigation Plan Update: Josh Stevens, Mahaska County Emergency Management Director, presented the current status of the county’s hazard mitigation plan. The plan, essential for securing federal funding for disaster mitigation projects, is currently outdated. Stevens emphasized the importance of updating the plan to maintain eligibility for federal assistance.
Grant Application for Plan Update: The state of Iowa has included Mahaska County in a grant application to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to fund the update of the hazard mitigation plan. This funding will enable the county to hire contractors to assist in the extensive process of revising the plan, which includes conducting numerous stakeholder meetings and gathering critical data.
Regional Coordination: The state is considering a regional approach to updating hazard mitigation plans due to the manpower constraints faced by Area 15, the regional planning agency. This coordinated effort aims to streamline the process and ensure comprehensive coverage for multiple counties.
Inclusion of Local Entities: The updated plan will include various local entities, such as school districts and communities, ensuring that all potential stakeholders are considered. This inclusion is vital as it allows these entities to qualify for federal funding for disaster mitigation projects.
Importance of Hazard Mitigation Planning
Disaster Preparedness and Response: A well-maintained hazard mitigation plan is crucial for effective disaster preparedness and response. It outlines strategies to reduce the impact of natural disasters, such as floods, tornadoes, and severe storms, on the community.
Federal Grant Eligibility: Counties with an updated hazard mitigation plan are eligible for various FEMA grants. These grants can fund projects aimed at reducing disaster risks, such as upgrading infrastructure, improving drainage systems, and enhancing emergency response capabilities.
Community Safety and Resilience: By proactively planning for disasters, Mahaska County can enhance the safety and resilience of its communities. This planning helps mitigate the effects of disasters, ensuring quicker recovery and reducing long-term economic and social impacts.
Moving Forward
Next Steps: Stevens indicated that the state will procure vendors to assist with the plan update, which is expected to begin in the fall. The process will involve extensive local engagement to ensure that all relevant entities are included and that the plan reflects the unique needs and risks of Mahaska County.
Communication with Stakeholders: Effective communication with all stakeholders, including cities, school districts, and local organizations, will be essential throughout the planning process. This collaborative approach will ensure that the updated plan is comprehensive and actionable.
Public Awareness and Participation: Increasing public awareness and participation in disaster planning is also a priority. Residents will be informed about the importance of the hazard mitigation plan and how they can contribute to the planning process.
For more information on disaster planning and hazard mitigation, refer to sources from FEMA, the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and Mahaska County Emergency Management.
