Emergency Management reviews disaster mitigation plan ahead of FEMA funding deadline

Clinton County officials are gearing up for a crucial update to their disaster mitigation plan, a requirement under the Federal Disaster Mitigation Act. During the recent Commissioner Meeting on July 1, 2025, discussions highlighted the importance of this plan in securing future FEMA funding for mitigation efforts.

A key speaker expressed relief after completing necessary documentation ahead of the July 4 deadline, alleviating initial concerns about potential costs. "We do have money in our budget if we would have to pay something, but I don't anticipate now... it will be based off of our hours worked," they noted, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the upcoming work.

The plan, which reviews historical data on tornadoes and severe weather over the past 50 years, is seen as vital for the county's preparedness and response strategies. The speaker reassured attendees that while the process will take time, there is no need for panic among departments. "Once I get all of the information... I will contact each of the departments to get a representative and let them know exactly what to anticipate," they stated.

The meeting also touched on the need for updated documentation, with officials eager to access the most recent plan to ensure comprehensive understanding and implementation. As the county moves forward, the focus remains on collaboration and thorough preparation to safeguard against future disasters.