Rialto approves Genesis evacuation-management platform contract to speed zone-based alerts

The Rialto City Council voted to authorize a contract for the Genesis Evacuation Management Platform, a zone-based emergency management and public-notification tool city staff said will reduce the time needed to issue targeted evacuation messages.

Staff presented Genesis as a real-time mapping and zone-management system that integrates with multiple messaging channels — including SMS, email, social media and digital displays — and with other emergency tools the city uses. The staff report listed an estimated operating cost of about $27,730 per year under a three-year contract, with additional years possible based on performance; staff said grant funding is available to cover program costs.

Presenters demonstrated the system’s zone-creation and message-targeting features and showed how responders can select prebuilt zones and send multichannel alerts. The vendor also noted integrations with common law-enforcement and fire platforms used in California.

Councilmembers requested a broader presentation on emergency readiness that includes public-works and water-department contingencies, including backup power and water availability during large incidents. Councilmember Ed Scott asked staff to return with additional detail about what would happen in a major fire or prolonged outage and whether the city has the equipment and backup power for critical water infrastructure.

Council approved the Genesis contract by voice vote after a motion and second; staff will proceed to finalize contract execution and schedule follow-up briefings on evacuation procedures and cross-department readiness.