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Local radio networks and CERT programs seen as vital redundancies for emergency response
Summary
LAPAC members recommended countywide coordination of local two‑way radio networks and renewed emphasis on CERT/citizen-response training to maintain redundancies when phones fail; Darlene described the local radio repeater setup.
Participants described existing two‑way radio networks as crucial backups when cellular service is unavailable. Darlene Warner explained local radio capabilities: "If our phones go out... we've got two-way radio where we're able to communicate with each other... we've got licensed and unlicensed users" and suggested expanding countywide reach and coordination with OES. She urged the county to support broader connectivity of the repeaters so neighborhoods can link to the county-level system.
Chris Nels raised the CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) topic and asked for policy language that supports citizen involvement in emergency response; staff said local CERT training occurred this year, conversations are ongoing with OES, and resource constraints are the likely impediment to broader rollout. Members discussed funding and the need for redundancies to preserve resiliency through lean budget cycles.
