The Emergency Preparedness Program used FY 2009 to continue to build the network with local jurisdictions and emergency response agencies to support and develop partnerships that enhance planning, cooperation, coordination, training, and exercises throughout the Heart of Texas Council of Governments Region. The partnerships included the continued development of Emergency Management plans for all of the counties. One major change is the requirement for cities to meet the HSGP eligibility standards before funds or equipment can be allotted to these jurisdictions. The Emergency Preparedness Program continues to act as an interface between local jurisdictions and state agencies and provide technical assistance as needed.

In 2010, the Emergency Preparedness Program staff managed design of and procurement of contractors for $1.3 million in tower improvements to secure communications operability for the Region's public safety personnel.  Staff updated the Regional Interoperable Communications Plan, and the new HOTCOG plan was used as a model for a national template.  Over 2010 staff increased its committment to a robust regional Citizens Corps by boosting training to local groups.  Finally, staff assisted counties in seeking Hazardous Mitigation Planning dollars to enhance public safety.

State Homeland Security Program (SHSP)

The State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) grant provides funds for homeland security and emergency operations planning and the purchase of specialized equipment to enhance the capability of local agencies to prevent and respond to incidents of terrorism.  These funds may be used for planning, organization, training, exercises and equipment.  The HOTCOG Region received approximately $1.7 million in State Homeland Security Program grants as part of the 2010 grant year.

ENS System

HOTCOG EP staff administers the Emergncy Notification System, a region-wide project which enables emergency responders to alert the general public by sending mass telephone notices when danger threatens.  Several jurisdictions use the system to notify specific areas of their population as well as a few complete county notifications.  This system continues to be a quick and viable means of notifying the general public of dangers or incidents that may cause harm to citizens or property.  In addition to database upkeep, end user training, such as call tests and actual call notifications, are the key to maintaining the success of this program.

Citizen Corpos Program (CCP)

The Citizen Corps Program, as an extension of the federal USA Freedom Corpos Program, provides the training, knowledge and equipment necessary for community members to ensure the safety and well-being of themselves, their families and their communities during both times of stability and times of emergency.

Training, Exercises and Technical Assistance

Members of the HOTCOG's Emergency Preparedness staff continue to provide training sessions to jurisdictions.  They have hosted Incident Command System training classes in locations throughout the region, provided ENS system training, and expanded Citizens Corpos training.