Harris County's new disaster plan

[editor]

Public Input on County Hazard Mitigation Plan Sought

Harris County is updating its Hazard Mitigation Plan, which proposes public programs to reduce deaths, injuries, and property damage from the natural disasters most likely to occur in the county. The public is invited to review the draft plan and suggest changes or additions. The document is on line at http://www.hcoem.org/documents/PublicReviewDocument.pdf . Comments may be made through this link http://www.readyharris.org/go/survey/1829/1823 . The comment period closes on September 30th.

Actions such as increasing size of certain drainage facilities, purchasing early warning equipment, and hiring additional emergency personnel are proposed in the plan. Policies addressing community growth, protection of natural resources, and public awareness and outreach campaigns are other measures that could be included. Participants are Harris County, 23 municipalities in the county, and the Harris County Flood Control District.

When the public comment period is over, the plan will be revised and will be submitted to state and federal agencies for review.

The plan may also be reviewed at Houston TranStar, 6922 Katy Rd., Houston, Texas and comments may also be submitted to Harris County OHSEM, 6922 Katy Rd., Houston, Texas 77024.

Mitigation planning offers many benefits, including:

. Saving lives and property;

. Saving money;

. Speeding recovery following disasters;

. Reducing future vulnerability through wise development and post-disaster recovery and reconstruction;

. Expediting the receipt of pre-disaster and post-disaster grant funding; and

. Demonstrating a firm commitment to improving community health and safety.

Harris County OHSEM welcomes your input.