OPERATING AUTHORITY AND PURPOSE

The Office of Emergency Management is a planning and coordinating agency. Our primary function is to develop comprehensive all-hazard plans for Racine County. Hazards can be broken down into three categories: natural, technological, and homeland security. The office provides 24 hour/day, 7 day/week response capability and serves as a centralized communications and warning center to monitor, track and advise emergency authorities and the public of impending or actual situations and, if necessary, to provide support to countywide emergency operations.

EVALUATION OF PERFORMANCE MEASURES

Updated County Emergency Operations Plan, Countywide Hazardous Materials Plan and off-site plans.

To prepare the community for natural and man-made disasters, conducted Tornado Awareness, Winter Awareness, Heat Awareness, and Family Preparedness campaigns; inaugurated Citizen Corps in February; and continued regular columns on emergency preparedness for The Journal Times.

Conducted Tornado Awareness and Spotter Workshops for emergency responders and the general public and set up an emergency management booth at various events around the county.

Managed almost $1 million in grants, including a 2002 Homeland Security Equipment Grant, 2002 Homeland Security Supplemental Grant, 2003 Homeland Security Equipment Grant, 2003 Homeland Security Equipment Supplemental Grant, and a Citizen Corps Grant.

Completed objectives of the Plan of Work required by the State Office of Emergency Management.

2005 GOALS AND BUDGET STRATEGIES

• Update the Racine County Emergency Operations Plan, Dispatch Dissemination forms, and Racine County Hazardous Materials Plan and Off-Site Plans.

• Conduct the following public awareness campaigns:
• Tornado Awareness Campaign
• Family Preparedness Campaign
• Hazmat Awareness Campaign

• Respond to emergency situations as necessary.

• Review properties that the county is considering taking possession of through In-Rem proceedings.

• Conduct annual Hazardous Materials and Homeland Security Exercises.

• Manage Homeland Security Grants.

• Submit and complete an approved Plan of Work.