In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a new Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) aimed at enhancing emergency shelter capabilities for Liberty County residents during evacuations. The agreement, which involves collaboration with Baldwin County, the Department of Human Services, the Department of Public Health, the Red Cross, and the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA), is designed to define roles and responsibilities for establishing shelters specifically for critical transportation needs.

The initiative, which has been in development for two years, seeks to ensure that residents who require evacuation—particularly those relying on school buses—have a designated shelter in Baldwin County. The selected facility is a Red Cross-approved shelter with a capacity of 397 individuals, which is deemed sufficient given that past evacuations have averaged around 150 people.

Officials emphasized that the shelter will not incur costs for Liberty County, as expenses will be reimbursed following a disaster declaration. The plan includes regular updates to ensure its effectiveness and readiness for future emergencies.

During the meeting, questions arose regarding the selection of Baldwin County as a partner, with officials explaining that the choice was based on population size and available facilities. The meeting also highlighted the importance of maintaining a functional medical registry to assist individuals with medical needs during evacuations.

As part of the evacuation strategy, officials assured that communication would be prioritized, with plans to notify residents about shelter availability and transportation logistics well in advance of any emergency. The meeting concluded with a recommendation for approval of the MOA, which is set to be presented to Baldwin County's board of commissioners for further endorsement.