Emergency management reports siren repairs, festival planning and a 27% federal grant cut

Peoria County emergency management staff told the committee that outdoor warning sirens have been fully restored and the office has shifted from infectious-disease response back to broader emergency planning, including a large Fourth of July event in downtown Peoria. "I'm happy or pleased to announce that, as of today, all of the radio or all the outdoor warning signs are working," the emergency management presenter said, noting prior supply-chain problems had hindered maintenance of some siren components. The presenter described coordinated planning for a major downtown event that includes fire, law enforcement and the Illinois Civil Support Team for air monitoring. The office also reported reductions in grant funding for preparedness. The presenter said the City’s Readiness Initiative was funded but the public-health emergency preparedness grant that supports local readiness saw a reduction of about 27%. He said he has discussed funding concerns with the county administrator and city manager and that they pledged support to mitigate cuts. The office reminded the public that the Emergency Expo was scheduled for the next day, subject to weather, and described a sensory hour an hour before the expo for attendees with sensory needs.