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Commission recommends adopting FEMA-approved Hazard Mitigation Plan into Desert Hot Springs general plan
Summary
The Planning Commission recommended the City Council adopt the FEMA-approved Local Hazard Mitigation Plan into the general plan safety element, noting that doing so preserves eligibility for federal disaster mitigation and relief funding and that the LHMP was approved by county, state and FEMA in 2024.
The Desert Hot Springs Planning Commission recommended that the City Council adopt the FEMA-approved Local Hazard Mitigation Plan into the city's general plan safety element.
Staff explained that the local hazard mitigation plan (LHMP) analyzes natural risks such as earthquakes, wildfires and floods and is a prerequisite for eligibility for certain federal and state mitigation and disaster assistance programs. The presenter told the commission the LHMP was reviewed and approved by Riverside County emergency management on May 21, 2024; by the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services on July 17, 2024; and by FEMA on Sept. 6, 2024. The city formally adopted the LHMP on Oct. 1, 2024.
"The local hazard mitigation plan is a planning document that analyzes natural occurring risks to communities such as earthquakes, fires, and floods," the presenter said, noting that jurisdictions must adopt FEMA-approved LHMPs to remain eligible for pre- and post-disaster mitigation funding and federal disaster assistance.
A commissioner moved to recommend the City Council adopt a resolution formally incorporating the LHMP into the safety element of the general plan. The motion was seconded and passed by a unanimous voice vote.
No members of the public provided comment on the LHMP item during the meeting.
The recommendation now advances to the City Council for formal adoption; doing so preserves Desert Hot Springs' eligibility for some state and federal mitigation funds and programs.
