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REPC outlines multi-phase ASHER exercise series pending NERAC funding
Summary
The MetroWest REPC reported a NERAC funding application for a three-phase ASHER exercise with an election security component, proposing community training in fall 2026, a tabletop in late winter, and a full-scale exercise in June 2027 if funded.
Michael Cassidy, representing Holliston Fire Department, told the MetroWest Regional Emergency Planning Committee that a training exercise request submitted to NERAC in 2024 remains under review and could fund a three-phase exercise series focused on ASHER with an election security component.
If NERAC approves funding, the proposed timeline includes community-level capacity building in fall 2026, an REPC-level tabletop exercise in late winter (2027), and a full-scale REPC exercise planned for June 2027. Cassidy said the final exercise timing would likely fall in the third or fourth week of June so it would occur after the school year but early enough to produce an after-action report with improvement plan (AAR-IP) by mid-July 2027.
The proposal contains some funding for a consultant to assist with exercise design and evaluation, but Cassidy said the plan is to rely largely on local talent to keep costs down. James Hicks recalled that Natick had previously been required to use a consultant for a similar series; the current proposal includes consultant funding but leaves room for local department staff to take planning roles. Tom Galvin, James Hicks and Chris Hampton offered personnel from their departments to work with the chair on planning and implementation if funding is approved.
No final funding decision was announced; the exercise remains contingent on NERAC approval. Committee members discussed staffing and consultant options and volunteered to assist if the grant is awarded.
