REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Proclamation of September 2026 as National Preparedness Month
Report
BACKGROUND
National Preparedness Month was launched in 2004 as part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) sponsored Ready Campaign in an effort to strengthen our country’s preparedness capabilities. The national preparedness architecture encompasses prevention, protection, response, and recovery efforts to prepare the United States for all hazards, whether terrorist attacks or natural disasters.
Since September 11, 2001, the U.S. Government has taken steps to encourage all citizens to make their own safety preparations. September was chosen as National Preparedness Month, as the tragedies of September 11, 2001, highlighted to the nation the importance of being prepared.
Since its inception, National Preparedness Month has encouraged individuals, families, and communities to take part in practicing preparedness, having knowledge about various emergencies that may affect them, and taking steps and getting trained in preparedness and response efforts.
DISCUSSION
National Preparedness Month is held annually in the month of September and emphasizes the need for each community in our nation to be prepared. This year’s National Preparedness Month theme is “Americans Stand Ready.” Our City recognizes the need for everyone in the community to remain prepared for all disasters, such as earthquakes, floods, and the potential for a Public Safety Power Shutoff due to wildland fires.
The City of Santa Clara is committed to supporting National Preparedness Month, realizing the importance of being prepared for all hazards. For more information, visit the City of Santa Clara Emergency Preparedness Resources website located at SantaClaraCA.gov/OEM and register for Alert SCC, Santa Clara County’s emergency alert and warning system. Residents are also encouraged to download the MyShake App to receive earthquake early warning notifications.
City Council would like to recognize and proclaim the month of September 2026 as “National Preparedness Month” with the theme “Santa Clara Ready” to increase public awareness of the importance of emergency preparedness. This year the City has specifically focused on preparing City staff for their role in a disaster as well as for pre-planned large City events.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The action being considered does not constitute a “project” within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(5) in that it is a governmental organizational or administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect changes in the environment.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact other than City staff time.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
Staff
Reviewed by: David Flamm, Emergency Manager
Approved by: Jovan Grogan, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Proclamation of September 2026 as National Preparedness Month