County Seeks Public Input on Hazard Mitigation Plan

Barrow County officials are asking for the public's input in updating the Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP). The HMP serves as the foundation for emergency management planning, exercises, training preparedness and mitigation within Barrow County.

"Such a plan sets the stage for long-term disaster resistance through identification of actions that will, over time, reduce the exposure of people and property to identifiable hazard," explained Lt. Scott Dakin of Barrow County Emergency Services. "This plan provides an overview of the hazards that threaten the County, and what safeguards have been implemented or may need to be considered for implementation in the future."

Barrow County's existing HMP identifies seven natural and two technological hazards to which the county is particularly vulnerable:  severe thunderstorms, winter storms, flooding, tornadoes, drought, wildfire, earthquakes, hazardous materials release and dam failures.

In addition to ensuring the county has a hazard response plan in place, the HMP also ensures eligibility for certain funding.

“If the County maintains its Hazard Mitigation Plan, it will maintain eligibility for disaster grant funding and bring money back to the community”, explained Margaret M. Walton, Project Manager Atkins Consulting. 

Citizens interested in participating in developing the new HMP are encouraged to attend a kickoff meeting scheduled for Jan. 8 from 1:30-3:30 p.m. in the Board of Commissioners meeting room located at 233 East Broad Street in Winder.

For more information, contact Penny Clack at 770-307-2987 or email pclack@barrowga.org .