Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Emergency Management topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council approves facility‑use agreement with American Red Cross for emergency shelters
Summary
The council approved a facility‑use agreement authorizing the American Red Cross to use designated city facilities as evacuation shelters and service sites during disasters; agreement sets shared responsibilities and a framework for FEMA reimbursement.
The Torrance City Council approved a facility‑use agreement allowing the American Red Cross to operate evacuation shelters and service centers at specified city facilities during emergencies.
City staff summarized that the agreement identifies pre‑designated facilities — including D. Hardison Sports Center, George Nakano Theater, Ken Miller Recreation Center and Toyota Meeting Hall — and outlines shared responsibilities for facility management, food and custodial services, pre‑ and post‑shelter inspections, and cost reimbursement procedures if resources are later reimbursed by FEMA. "This agreement establishes a formal partnership that allows the Red Cross to utilize designated city facilities as emergency shelters and service sites during disasters," a city manager representative said during the presentation; a Red Cross representative, Theresa Robby, was present.
The agreement imposes no fees for shelter use in keeping with Red Cross's humanitarian mission, but it includes insurance, indemnification and cost‑recovery provisions. Council moved and seconded to concur with the city manager’s recommendation; the motion carried with Council Member Sheikh absent.
Staff noted the agreement is meant to improve coordination and clarify responsibilities during disasters; the Red Cross will operate upon request and in coordination with city staff.
