REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Proclamation of September 2020 as Community 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 survival 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 steps, having knowledge about various emergencies that may affect them, and taking steps and getting trained in preparedness and response efforts.
DISCUSSION
National Preparedness Month falls in September each year and emphasizes the need for each community in our nation to be prepared. This year’s National Preparedness Month theme is "Disasters Don’t Wait. Make Your Plan Today." Even though we are fully involved in responding to the current pandemic for COVID-19, we must 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 support National Preparedness Month, realizing the importance of being prepared for all hazards. For more information, visit the City of Santa Clara Emergency Preparedness website <https://www.santaclaraca.gov/services/emergency-services/emergency-preparedness> and register for Alert SCC <https://www.sccgov.org/sites/alertscc/Pages/home.aspx>, Santa Clara County’s emergency alert and warning system.
The City Council would like to recognize the month of September 2020 as “Community Preparedness Month” to increase public awareness of the importance of emergency preparedness.
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 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 <mailto:clerk@santaclaraca.gov>.
Staff
Reviewed by: Ruben Torres, Fire Chief
Approved by: Deanna J. Santana, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Community Preparedness Month Proclamation