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Durham proclaims Disaster Preparedness Week; residents urge accessible planning
Summary
The board proclaimed June 28'July 4, 2025, Disaster Preparedness Week. Community members urged the county to prioritize accessible plans for disabled and vulnerable residents and to coordinate spending across city, county and schools.
The Durham Board of County Commissioners proclaimed June 28 through July 4, 2025, as Disaster Preparedness Week and urged residents to prepare for potential heat waves, floods and fires.
Commissioner Valentine read the proclamation and highlighted that disasters typically hit the most vulnerable residents hardest. Community members who addressed the board said preparedness must include accessible plans for people with disabilities. James Chavis, a community facilitator who spoke after the proclamation, asked a series of readiness questions to the board and audience: "Do you know what you need? Where you go? How you get there? Who's gonna help you if you can't get there?" He added, "I am disabled. I'm not the only disabled person." Another resident, identified as Miss Paris, urged government officials to translate expressions of care into action and to prioritize practical supports during emergencies.
The proclamations were ceremonial; the meeting record shows the board intends to elevate preparedness awareness across the county. No new funding or formal emergency policy was adopted at the April 28 meeting.
Why it matters: Residents emphasised that preparedness planning must account for mobility and access needs and that coordinated spending decisions across city, county and school boards are critical to protect vulnerable populations.
