Ordinance 3724ORDINANCE NO. 3724
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF EDMONDS, WASHINGTON
AUTHORIZING THE ADOPTION OF THE CITY OF EDMONDS
DISASTER RECOVERY PLAN AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF
THE CITY OF EDMONDS DISASTER RECOVERY TASK
FORCE.
WHEREAS, the City is vulnerable to various technological and natural hazards such as
earthquakes, flooding, severe weather, wind, accidents and acts of terrorism, resulting in major
disasters causing substantial loss of life and property;
WHEREAS, the City is authorized under state law to declare a local state of emergency
and take actions necessary to ensure the public safety and well -being of its residents, visitors,
business community, and property during and after such major disasters;
WHEREAS, it is essential to the well -being of the City to expedite recovery and
reconstruction, mitigate hazardous conditions, and improve the community after such major
disasters;
WHEREAS, disaster recovery and reconstruction can be facilitated by establishment of a
Recovery Task Force within the City government to plan, coordinate and expedite recovery
activities;
WHEREAS, preparation of a pre -event plan for disaster recovery and reconstruction can
help the City organize to expedite recovery in advance of a major disaster, and to identify and
mitigate hazardous conditions, both before and after such a disaster;
WHEREAS, recovery can be expedited by pre -event adoption of an ordinance
authorizing City actions to be taken during the declared local emergency to expedite
implementation of recovery and reconstruction measures identified in the pre -event plan;
The City Council does hereby ordain:
Section 1. Authority. This ordinance is adopted by the City Council acting under
authority of the City Municipal Code and all applicable state and federal laws and regulations.
Section 2. Recovery Plan. The City of Edmonds Disaster Recovery Plan is adopted to
provide for efficient coordination and policy guidance during the disaster recovery and
reconstruction process.
Section 3. Recovery Task Force. The City of Edmonds Recovery Task Force, as
identified in the City of Edmonds Disaster Recovery Plan, is established to assist the Mayor in
guiding successful recovery efforts for the City in the event of a major disaster.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED that this Ordinance has been adopted by the
City Council of the City of Edmonds, Washington at a regular meeting thereof this 27th day of
January, 2009.
ATTEST /AUTHENTICATED:
ITY CLERK, SANDRA S. CHASE
APPROVED AS TO FO
OFFICE OF THI CI A TO
BY
W. SCOTT SNYDER
FILED WITH THE CITY CLERK: 01/23/2009
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL: 01/27/2009
PUBLISHED: 02/01/2009
EFFECTIVE DATE: 02/06/2009
ORDINANCE NO. 3724
APPROVE
MAYOA GAV FIMAKENSON
-2-
SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 3724
of the City of Edmonds, Washington
On the 27th day of January, 2009, the City Council of the City of Edmonds,
passed Ordinance No. 3724. A summary of the content of said ordinance, consisting of the title,
provides as follows:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF EDMONDS,
WASHINGTON AUTHORIZING THE ADOPTION OF THE
CITY OF EDMONDS DISASTER RECOVERY PLAN AND THE
ESTABLISHMENT OF THE CITY OF EDMONDS DISASTER
RECOVERY TASK FORCE.
The full text of this Ordinance will be mailed upon request.
DATED this 28th day of January, 2009.
11114 6410jtbll
-3-
City of Edmonds
Disaster Recovery Plan
1. General Pg. 5
Purpose
Scope
Organization
Coordination
Relationship to Other Plans
Citizen Input
Plan Update
Sample Plan Adoption Ordinance
2. Recovery and Restoration Policy Pg. 7
Residential, Commercial and Industrial Rehabilitation
Public Sector Services
Economic Recovery
Land Use /Re -use and Mitigation Activities
Organization and Authority
Psychological Rehabilitation
Vital Records
Public /Private Partnerships
Traffic Mitigation
3. Pre - Disaster Mitigation Planning Pg. 13
4. Transition From Response to Recovery Pg. 14
5. Recovery Issues Pg. 14
6. Concept of Recovery Operations Pg. 15
7. Responsibilities Pg. 16
8. Establishing Post - Disaster Recovery Goals Pg. 19
Reestablish Essential Services
Identify Decision - making Processes
Identify Transition Activities
Modify Local Permitting Processes
9. Recovery Task Force Pg. 21
Organization
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 1 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
Role
10. Damage Assessment
Direction and Control
Concept of Operations
Tracking Structures and Infrastructures
Damage Assessment Policies
Building and Land Use Permitting
Appeal Procedures
Absentee Property Notification
11. Public Information and Outreach
Concept of Operations
Public Meetings
Press Tours
Rumor Control
Disaster Assistance Center
Unmet Needs
12. Public Safety
Curfew
Re -entry
Arson Control
Traffic Control
13. Debris Management
Removal
Temporary Storage
Waste Reduction /Recycling
Permanent Disposal
14. Human Services
15. Public Health
Water Quality
Contamination
Hazardous Materials
Animal Control
Vector Control
Immunization
Testing
16. Communications Infrastructure
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan
Pg. 22
Pg. 29
Pg. 33
Pg. 34
Pg. 37
Pg. 37
Pg. 39
2 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
Telephone
Email
17. Essential Service Restoration
Electricity
Water and Sewer
Gas
Storm Drainage and Surface Water Management
18. Transportation
Roads and Bridges
Lighting
Traffic Signals and Signs
19. Building Inspection
Code Revisions
Enforcement
Non - conforming Structures
Unsafe Structures
Contractor Licensing /monitoring
Construction Fraud
20. Review of Existing Plans
Land Use
Capital Improvement
Pre- disaster Mitigation
21. Resource Management
Resource Lists
Resource Distribution and Management
22. Short Term Housing
Usable Housing Stock
Additional Housing Sources
Rentals
Mobile Homes and Parks
Location of Temporary Housing Units
Low Income
23. Long Term Housing
Replacement of Existing Structures
New Development
Pg. 39
Pg. 41
0m,
Pg. 43
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 3 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
Low Income
24. Economic Restoration
Economic Recovery Priorities
Small Business Preparedness
25. Legal
Legal Counsel
Ordinance Development and Review
26. Financial
Fiscal Management
Tax Base
Project Costs
Insurance Claims
Project Budgeting
Donations
27. Documentation and Records
Financial
Project
Vital Records Protection
28. Staff Management
Safety and Risk Management
Additional Staffing Needs
Temporary Assignments
Time Off
Counseling and Stress Management
Recognition
Volunteers
imm
Pg. 50
Appendices:
A: Plan Adoption Ordinance
B: Agreement to Assume Risk of Entering Endangered Structures
C: Disaster Debris Operations Memorandum of Understanding
D: City Resource List
E: Inventory of Multiple Housing Units
F: Housing Assistance
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 4 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
� ►-;
a
Purpose
The purpose of the City of Edmonds Recovery Plan is:
• To provide for efficient coordination and policy guidance during the
disaster recovery process
• To anticipate what will be needed to restore the City of Edmonds to
full functioning as rapidly as possible
• To maximize effective recovery by facilitating and improving the
flow of information and coordination within and between operational
levels of the system
• To provide for effective mobilization, deployment, utilization,
tracking and demobilization of recovery resources
• To enhance and coordinate recovery intelligence gathering and
information sharing capabilities
The recovery process includes the restoration of damaged or destroyed
public facilities and infrastructure and the coordination of available
services and assistance to citizens and businesses impacted by the
disaster.
This Plan provides an organizational framework, policy guidance and
methods for use during the recovery process. This Plan provides for the
assignment of responsibilities within the City's organizational structure and
includes opportunities for participation by community members.
Scope
The term "Recovery" generally refers to the process of returning City
government services to normal, and the repair of infrastructure and
restoration of economic vitality to the community. The management of the
recovery process is the responsibility of the local jurisdiction affected by a
disaster.
This Plan describes the activities which may be required to manage the
recovery process. It defines the responsibilities of elected officials and City
staff. It provides guidelines for the assessment of long term shelter and
housing needs, community security, public information, public assistance,
damage assessment, debris management, restoration of public facilities
and services, and the coordination of public and private resources.
Recovery includes repair or reconstruction of communications
infrastructure; damaged public facilities and infrastructure; facilitation of
the restoration of residential and commercial structures; restoration of the
community's economic base by supporting business resumption and
employment opportunities; and the identification and implementation of
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 5 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
mitigation projects and programs to reduce future disaster damage such
as land use and building codes.
This Plan is based on information available at the time of its development.
Resources, assistance programs, statutes, codes and regulations are
subject to change and will impact the recovery process. Some deviation
from this plan may be necessary to comply with current government
standards and to meet the needs of the community.
C. Organization
The City of Edmonds has a Mayor /Council organization; within this
structure, the Mayor has the primary responsibility for overseeing and
managing the Recovery process. The City Council will be responsible for
policy actions including the institution of emergency and /or special
ordinances and resolutions; appropriating funds as necessary; and
meeting with visiting dignitaries. The City staff will be responsible for their
usual duties, as well as Recovery projects and programs as assigned by
the Mayor.
D. Coordination
Coordination of recovery activities is the key to the successful recovery of
the community. The Mayor may appoint a Recovery Coordinator to
manage the City's recovery process and a Recovery Task Force made up
of City staff and representatives from key organizations and community
groups who have a vested interest in the community's recovery to assist in
the recovery process and advise on matters related to recovery. The
Recovery Task Force will be dynamic in nature, with involved personnel
changing as projects and needs change. The duty of Recovery
Coordinator may also be assigned to varying personnel as needed and
appropriate. The Emergency Services Coordinating Agency (ESCA) will
maintain a support/advisory role within the Recovery Task Force.
E. Relationship to Other Plans
Some recovery activities begin before disaster response activities are
concluded. As such, the Recovery Plan is closely linked to the City's
Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan, requiring coordination of
activities and resources as the response phase of disaster operations
begins to subside and recovery activities begin. This Plan is also
compatible with both the Snohomish County Disaster Debris Management
Plan and the Seattle Urban Area Security Initiative Region Disaster Debris
Management Plan. As the recovery progresses, issues of rebuilding,
redevelopment and mitigation will become important considerations. The
City's Comprehensive Plan, the North King and South Snohomish
Counties Regional Mitigation Plan, Capital Improvement Plan, Public
Works Mutual Aid Agreement, as well as existing plans for revitalization,
will need to be reviewed and considered as part of the recovery process.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 6 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
Opportunities for community improvement should be considered while
long term recovery activities are being planned.
F. Citizen Input
Opportunities for Citizen Review and Input regarding the City of Edmonds
Recovery Plan will be provided in accordance with established City policy
and procedures.
G. Plan Updates
This Plan should be reviewed at frequent intervals in conjunction with
related plans and regulations governing recovery activities. Changes in
the community including demographics, development trends, mitigation
strategies and State and Federal guidelines should be reviewed for
consideration when updating this Plan. Revisions and /or amendments
may be made at any time to correct deficiencies or to accommodate
changes within the community or City organization that would affect
recovery activities.
H. Recovery Plan Adoption Ordinance
See Appendix A: Plan Adoption Ordinance
RECOVERY AND RESTORATION POLICY
This Section provides a summary of Plan policies related to recovery and
reconstruction. They are grouped by eight general functions:
• Residential, Commercial and Industrial Rehabilitation
• Public Sector Services
• Economic Recovery
• Land Use /Re -Use
• Organization and Authority
• Psychological Rehabilitation
• Vital Records
• Public /Private Partnerships
• Traffic Mitigation
A. Residential, Commercial and Industrial Rehabilitation
IT IS THE CITY'S POLICY.
• That temporary housing will be coordinated with supporting agencies to
provide safe, secure and sanitary housing for displaced residents. Such
housing will be closed as soon as long term housing becomes available.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 7 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
• To maximize available housing stock by protecting renters from excessive
and opportunistic rent increases.
• To coordinate the sheltering requirements for specialized personnel
requiring housing as a result of mutual aid from other jurisdictions.
• That demolition, when necessary, be done as expeditiously as possible.
• That, when necessary, mutual aid resources will be used to assist in the
building damage assessment effort.
• That the Building Department, and other agencies as appropriate,
provides systematic damage assessment inspections of structures on a
priority basis.
• To inspect, gather information on and provide systematic evaluation of
natural and toxic hazards on a priority basis, in coordination with the
damage assessment process.
• To work cooperatively with other agencies and jurisdictions to assist with
interim housing.
• To encourage immediate repair for interim re- occupancy of damaged
properties.
• To provide for security to sheltering, temporary distribution centers and
other emergency response facilities.
• To expedite post -event hazard mitigation activities mandated under the
Stafford Act (Public Law 93 -288, as amended) and related Federal and
State regulations and guidelines.
• To facilitate short -term recovery by securing contracts, pre- event, for
assistance to expedite permit review for reconstruction projects.
• That to the maximum extent feasible, recovery and restoration alternatives
be chosen which best preserve and protect the environment and improve
the environmental health and safety of the City.
B. Public Sector Services
IT IS THE CITY'S POLICY.
• That a plan for the orderly restoration of services after a major disaster be
developed.
• That during the Recovery and Restoration phase of a major disaster, City
employees shall be fully used whenever possible.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 8 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
• Private contractors, as well as, temporary and contract employees will be
used as needed to aid in restoration of normal services.
• To develop an inventory of available public and private buildings that can
be used to house City services in the event of a major disaster.
• That there is a plan for procuring equipment and services needed in the
Recovery and Restoration process.
• That a coordinated public information system be developed to include
public service announcements, hotlines, automated call directors, and
other communication media to keep City employees and the general
public informed of ongoing Recovery and Restoration activities.
• Provide protection to residents endangered by animal related conditions
and as resources are available, the City will attempt to confine, care for
and provide emergency care for lost and /or abandoned animals.
C. Economic Recovery
IT IS THE CITY'S POLICY:
• To ensure essential services to maintain public health and safety for a
period deemed necessary.
• To facilitate the re- establishment of essential commercial services and
necessary utilities in locations near temporary shelters.
• To join other government agencies and the private sector to return the
public infrastructure and the City's services to pre -event levels, or better.
• To assist citizens and private sector businesses in re- establishing normal
activities and operations as quickly as possible.
D. Land Use /Re -use and Mitigation Activities
IT IS THE CITY'S POLICY.•
• To accelerate pre -event hazard mitigation activity through developing and
refining information, policies and regulations interrelating geologic
hazards, structures and land use planning.
• To develop appropriate mitigation standards for new and existing
construction commensurate with the degree of hazard and require building
owners and /or developers to comply with standards.
• To strengthen and enhance public education concerning natural hazards
and land use /re -use issues in anticipation of a community -wide disaster.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 9 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
• To develop and maintain appropriate mitigation standards for new and
existing City facilities and public improvements commensurate with the
degree of hazards.
• To identify and use existing laws and local implementation procedures for
disaster Recovery and Restoration purposes, needs and processes.
• That following a community -wide disaster, any plan revisions or adoption
shall take into consideration the correction of deficiencies in infrastructure
and improvements, both public and private. (Improvements could include
non - conforming streets, alleys or sidewalks, overhead public utilities,
inefficient street patterns, utilities, etc.)
• To reflect a proactive rather than reactive approach to restoration issues
and opportunities through the implementation of the Recovery and
Restoration Plan, and if necessary, the creation and implementation of a
post -event strategic plan to guide restoration efforts.
• To prepare a post -event redevelopment strategy which protects financial
obligations related to existing redevelopment areas, seeks new financing
for reconstruction and redevelopment, streamlines redevelopment
expansion procedures and coordinates these with other City, County,
State and Federal entities.
E. Organization and Authority
IT IS THE CITY'S POLICY.
• That to the extent possible, the City shall accomplish disaster Recovery
and Restoration through the existing City organization structure which may
be modified to address Recovery and Restoration concerns.
• That Recovery and Restoration activities will be guided by the operational
concepts detailed in Emergency Support Function 14 — Long -Term
Community Recovery of the City's Comprehensive Emergency
Management Plan.
• That a Recovery Task Force be created as a multi - discipline advisory
committee for the duration of the Recovery and Restoration process.
• That following a major disaster, every effort be made to restore normal
operating and decision - making processes as quickly as possible, and that,
to the extent possible, Recovery and Restoration objectives be
accomplished through standard operating procedures.
• That City Recovery and Restoration policy priorities be established prior to
and maintained during the Recovery process. This may include special
permit requirements for vulnerable areas (critical areas, environmentally
sensitive areas, wetlands, etc), historic structure policies, requirements for
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 10 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
post- disaster repair building permits, zoning for critical or hazardous
areas, zoning for non - conforming lots and buildings, private property
acquisition or condemnation ordinances, local tax incentives, etc.
• To identify and integrate the actions of this Plan with those of the Pre -
Disaster Mitigation Plan and the Emergency Operations Plan and
procedures through a four -year implementation program, overseen by the
Mayor and /or appropriate City Staff and coordinated through the annual
budget process.
F. Psychological Rehabilitation
IT IS THE CITY'S POLICY:
• To acknowledge the psychological aspects of the aftermath of a major
disaster affecting City employees.
• To provide support to City employees called upon to perform in unfamiliar
roles and environments, under conditions of fatigue and extreme stress,
and often out of touch with family members for extended periods of time.
• To recognize that one of the most serious impacts of any disaster is the
psychological trauma which disaster creates for the public service and
volunteer personnel who must respond to it. The City's plans to prepare
for, respond to and recover from disasters shall include provisions to deal
with disaster - related stress.
• That stress management should not be limited to intervention by mental
health professionals after a disaster. Disaster - related stress can be
alleviated to a significant degree by the pre- incident preparations which
are made to cope with a disaster's occurrence. Because City employees
represent a critical resource in disaster Response and Recovery, priority
should be given to programs which help mitigate their post- disaster stress.
• To maximize community and public resources available to deal with stress
management in a major disaster by ensuring City employees are aware of
pre -event training and counseling programs such as Employee Assistance
Programs.
That while priority must be given to efforts to prevent and deal with post -
traumatic stress on the part of City employees and disaster volunteers, the
City's long -term Recovery efforts will be significantly affected by the
effects which post- traumatic stress has on the residents and the
community as a whole.
• The City will rely on appropriate agencies to address the issue of post -
traumatic stress affecting the citizens of Edmonds.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 11 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
G. Vital Records
IT IS THE CITY'S POLICY.•
• To formulate and maintain a Vital Records Protection and Retention Plan
in order to provide protection of City documents and information required
to continue essential operations in the event of a disaster and to resume
normal operations after a disaster.
• To utilize the State Archivist Office for off -site records retention.
• To safeguard copies of vital records in order to maintain daily operations
of City government.
H. Public /Private Partnerships
IT IS THE CITY'S POLICY.
• To maintain ongoing liaison and contact with appropriate public and
private agencies to improve cooperation among agencies and to ensure
familiarity with the emergency response and recovery plans of various
agencies; and develop, implement and maintain, when necessary, mutual
aid agreements for disaster services.
• To work with the Emergency Services Coordinating Agency to facilitate
recovery activities with public and private entities.
• To coordinate sheltering requirements with the Red Cross, City Parks
Department, Edmonds School District and other appropriate entities.
• To work with appropriate local, State and Federal entities to expedite the
provision of financial and other assistance to residents whose homes have
been damaged, and to business enterprises which have been damaged.
• To work with the private sector to expedite the restoration of public
infrastructure residence, business and industry in the post- disaster
environment.
• To encourage and assist private sector entities in the development of
Response and Recovery Plans and programs.
• To plan for the availability of priority equipment and services needed in the
Recovery and Restoration process; and to coordinate the sheltering
requirements of specialized volunteer personnel acquired as a result of
mutual aid from other jurisdictions.
• To work with appropriate local, State and Federal entities to facilitate the
restoration of roadways and utilities immediately following a disaster.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 12 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
• To work with appropriate local, State, Federal and private entities to
ensure resources to provide essential services to maintain public health
and safety for a period deemed necessary.
• To promote legislation addressing Recovery and Restoration from a major
disaster, and to work with other jurisdictions, where feasible, in promoting
such legislation.
• To coordinate, where appropriate, with other City, County, State and
Federal governments and the media to assure accurate and timely public
information is disseminated.
Traffic Mitigation
lT IS THE CITY'S POLICY.
• That during the Recovery and Restoration phase of a major disaster, an
emergency transportation network be implemented that would maintain
public health and safety and aid in the economic recovery of the City.
• To facilitate implementation of emergency travel routes and checkpoints
as needed for transit agencies and providers within the City during the
Recovery and Restoration phase of a major disaster.
• To disseminate accurate and current traffic and transportation information
during the Recovery and Restoration phase of a major disaster.
3. PRE - DISASTER PLANNING AND MITIGATION
The most effective strategy for a successful recovery is to anticipate the
resources needed in advance of the disaster and to plan for the most effective
use of such resources. The City should review identified potential hazards and
perform risk analysis in order to develop capabilities and determine the resources
needed to facilitate recovery.
Mitigation and prevention is the centerpiece of recovery because all long -term
development and recovery depends on the ability of the City to ensure that the
risk for future damage is minimized and controlled. Mitigation is the foundation of
sustainable community development. The City will participate in pre- disaster
mitigation planning. The identification of mitigation opportunities and projects
may provide for rebuilding opportunities during the recovery process that result in
a more sustainable, disaster resistant community infrastructure. These
opportunities and projects will be identified through the application of
"sustainability strategies," including, but not limited to:
• Reducing risks from future disasters
• Eliminating non - conforming uses
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 13 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
CI
5.
• Modifying land use
• Correcting plan or zoning inconsistencies
• Realigning, extending or improving roads
• Improving housing conditions or affordability
• Enhancing the local economy
• Upgrading inadequate commercial or public facilities
• Improving urban design
• Providing open space
• Preserving historic buildings or other cultural resources
The first step in pre- disaster planning is to identify what is likely to be damaged in
probable disaster events. Once identified, a proposed mitigation project is
reviewed for compliance with existing City plans, policies and regulations, and
any pertinent State or Federal laws. Mitigation project proposals should include
discussion and consideration of the possible need for special legislation, levies,
appropriations, emergency contingency funds, and intra- agency approvals.
Detailed information of City of Edmonds mitigation activities can be found in the
North King and South Snohomish Counties Regional Mitigation Plan, a
separately published document.
Prior to a disaster, the Recovery Coordinator shall be responsible for developing
recovery plans in coordination with appropriate staff and supporting agencies;
training city department staff on recovery responsibilities; and assisting
department staff in the development of recovery procedures.
TRANSITION FROM RESPONSE TO RECOVERY
The transition from the Response Phase to the Recovery Phase following a
disaster will begin after life safety issues have been addressed, and the
evaluation of Damage Assessment information has begun. The initial focus of
"recovery planning" is on impact assessment.
Short -term Recovery operations begin during the Response Phase of the
emergency and can last up to six (6) months.
Long -term Recovery operations focus on the restoration of the City to pre -
disaster (or better) condition. Some long -term recovery activities are extensions
of short-term activities; others begin after short-term projects are completed. The
Long -Term Recovery Phase may last up to ten (10) years.
RECOVERY ISSUES
The following is a list of common recovery issues. Primary issues will be
addressed as part of the recovery planning process. Non - specific issues will be
referred to the Disaster Recovery Coordinator and /or the Recovery Task Force
for review on a case by case basis during the recovery process.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 14 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
• Activate Recovery Task Force
• Establish recovery goals and objectives
• Identify recovery priorities
• Identify and define long and short term recovery activities
• Establish an Unmet Needs Committee
• Identify the roles of community leadership
• Review hazard mitigation plans for recovery projects
• Develop damage assessment procedures
• Develop procedures for public information and outreach
• Address public safety issues
• Develop debris management guidelines
• Assess public health needs
• Identify priorities for restoration of essential services
• Identify transportation issues
• Develop building inspection procedures
• Review land use and capital improvement plans to assist with
redevelopment
• Identify resources and establish distribution management plans
• Assess short and long term housing needs
• Develop documentation procedures
• Identify legal issues
• Review financial issues and impacts
• Address staff needs
• Develop communications strategy
• Address economic recovery issues
6. CONCEPT OF RECOVERY OPERATIONS
Successful community recovery from disaster will only occur if everyone in the
community understands the process and how they fit in. Individuals, agencies,
organizations and businesses must understand their responsibilities and must
coordinate their work efforts with the City's recovery leadership.
• The City of Edmonds recovery organization follows the concepts of the
National Incident Management System (NIMS).
• Recovery activities will be carried out using this Plan as a guide. The City
will follow State and Federal regulations governing disaster assistance
programs.
• Many recovery activities are operational in nature and begin while
response operations are still underway. Coordination of these activities
with first responder agencies will be required until all emergency response
activities have concluded.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 15 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
• Recovery operations will continue long after the emergency response has
concluded. In events such as floods and earthquakes the recovery
process may take many years. This portion of the long term recovery
process will be managed by the Mayor and the designated Disaster
Recovery Coordinator, the Community Services Director.
• Recovery from a disaster or emergency will likely involve assistance and
support from the State and Federal governments. Support includes
recovery operations, restoration of public property and critical services,
and assistance to citizens and businesses.
• The primary focus during recovery is to return the situation to pre- disaster
condition as quickly as possible. However, opportunities to make long
term improvements to the community, as well as mitigation opportunities,
must be considered.
• Some recovery issues may involve other jurisdictions and agencies. In
such circumstances, coordination with appropriate jurisdictions and
agencies will be arranged through the Disaster Recovery Coordinator.
7. RESPONSIBILITIES
Elected Officials
• Adopt Recovery Plan prior to disaster
• Maintain continuity of government
• Consider emergency or special ordinances and resolutions recommended
by staff
• Meet with visiting dignitaries
• Appropriate funds to meet emergency needs
• Appropriate funds for mitigation activities
Mayor
• Provide visible leadership to the community
• Proclaim emergency orders
Appoint Public Information Officer(s)
• Oversee recovery operations and programs
• Appoint Disaster Recovery Coordinator
• Assign members of Recovery Task Force
• Observe and respond to symptoms of stress within the community and
City staff
City Attorney
• Review contracts for recovery projects
• Advise on city policies related to the legal aspects of recovery
• Review ordinances
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 16 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
Recovery Task Force
• Oversee the recovery and reconstruction process
• Identify mitigation opportunities, identify resources and ensure maximum
control over the recovery process
• Assist in the preparation of a post disaster redevelopment plans
• Recommend ordinances and policies necessary to efficiently manage the
recovery process
• Develop policies that promote mitigation from future damage
• Recommend economic recovery initiatives
• Develop policies for redevelopment in areas sustaining repeated disaster
damage
• Develop procedures to implement re- construction policies
• Develop policies for relocating and acquiring damaged structures or
properties
Disaster Recovery Coordinator
• Serve as chairperson of the Recovery Task Force
• Manage disaster recovery programs
• Make recommendations to the Mayor and elected officials on recovery
matters reviewed by the Recovery Task force
Public Works
• Manage debris removal process
• Establish post disaster recycling programs
• Coordinate restoration of services with contract utility providers
• Reestablish temporary traffic control measures to damaged or destroyed
intersection lighting or signage
• Manage mitigation and repair projects as appropriate
• Perform damage assessment of City infrastructure
• Perform minor repairs to City owned utilities and buildings
• Coordinate public works mutual aid activities
• Coordinate with Federal and State agencies, e.g. Depts. Of Ecology and
Health, regarding utility related environmental and health issues
• Assess damage and facilitate necessary repairs at Wastewater Treatment
Plant
• Assess damage to and facilitate necessary repairs to City's water and
sewer systems
Engineering
• Manage contracts for major restoration and reconstruction of street and
traffic control systems, and City owned utilities
• Reestablish temporary traffic control measures to damaged or destroyed
intersection lighting or signage
• Assist Public Works in damage assessment activities on City infrastructure
• Provide infrastructure records to public safety and health personnel, public
works staff, recovery planners, design professionals and demolition and
construction contractors
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 17 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
• Coordinate with adjacent cities and WSDOT to maintain principal roadway
networks
• Prepare alternative traffic routing and traffic control plans
• Coordinate with transit agencies to maintain public transportation
Building /Planning
• Coordinate and perform damage assessment activities
• Prepare ordinances to modify existing codes as necessary
• Prepare ordinances to enact temporary codes to support recovery efforts
• Manage the permit process
• Review existing zoning regulations to determine recovery issues
• Help produce maps for recovery planning purposes
• Provide GIS mapping for ongoing tracking of damage assessments,
mitigation, environmental issues, permits and status of other recovery
issues
• Review zoning and land use issues for non - conformity and appropriate
reconstruction
Economic Development
• Coordinate Economic Recovery planning
• Assist Public Information Officer(s) with communications to local business
community
• Identify barriers and existing ordinances which inhibit recovery
Parks & Recreation
• Coordinate temporary housing efforts
• Assist public works with debris removal and recycling efforts
• Coordinate assistance efforts for special populations
Finance
• Establish policies and procedures for emergency purchasing and
contracting
• Coordinate the restoration of computer and phone systems
• Review contracts for recovery purchasing and projects
• Compile disaster response and recovery related costs and maintain
financial records
• Manage donated funds in support of community recovery efforts
• Identify sources of funds to support recovery programs and projects
• Manage insurance claim filing
• Research public and private grant availability
Human Resources /Personnel
• Initiate and manage employee notification and support programs
• Identify staffing needs and sources for filling shortfalls
• Register temporary volunteer workers
• Coordinate EAP and stress management programs
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 18 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
Police
• Provide security for restricted access and evacuated areas
• Assist in the distribution of emergency public information
• Implement alternative patrol response plan ( SNOCOM Priority E, 1 P, 1 &
2 only)
• Implement TRU (Telephone Reporting Unit) at SNOCOM back -up stations
for Level 3 calls and general public inquiries
• Re- assign non - commissioned and volunteer staff for non - critical incident
response
• Coordinate public information campaign regarding fraud /looting
awareness, child safety and other post- disaster community crime issues
• Liaison with other local and regional LE agencies to coordinate
enforcement and investigation of disaster - related criminal incidents
• Field proactive rapid response team to identify and resolve disaster -
related public safety problems i.e. traffic issues, theft of food /materials,
etc.
• Use existing volunteers and non - commissioned staff to identify and assist
as appropriate special needs /high vulnerability citizens i.e. elderly,
handicapped, blind /deaf, etc.
Fire
• Assist in the distribution of emergency public information
• Provide assistance with code modifications when necessary
• Protect public from fire and unreasonable fire risks
• Provide assistance in maintenance of reconstruction safety
City Clerk
• Provide for the protection of vital records
• Manage the recovery and restoration process for damaged records
• Maintain records of Recovery Task Force in coordination with Records
Management
8. ESTABLISHING POST - DISASTER RECOVERY GOALS
Establishing recovery goals will help to ensure that every effort is made to restore
normal City operating and decision making processes as quickly as possible.
A. A primary goal in the early phases of the recovery process is to re-
establish essential services to the community. This includes utilities,
transportation and primary community services. It is imperative that
actions are taken swiftly with resolve in order to retain community
confidence and minimize economic disruption.
B. Identify the processes by which recovery decisions are made and
integrated into the political process. If not already done, a Disaster
Recovery Coordinator should be appointed and a Recovery Task Force
should be established. Membership on the Task Force or its sub-
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 19 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
committees should allow for integration of the public into the recovery
decision process. Consider civic and economic interests, historic
preservation, neighborhoods and special needs populations as well as city
departments and supporting agencies.
C. Begin to consider the process of transitioning activities from response to
recovery, including:
• Developing a City services "impact analysis" to determine likely
disaster impacts on essential City functions and operations
• Determining types of vendor contracts and /or mutual aid
agreements necessary for continuation of post- disaster City
government essential services
• Formulating a policy regarding pay and leave time, ensuring these
provisions are compliant with union contracts, as appropriate
• Reassigning of staff to assist with short term recovery activities
• Increasing administrative capacity and preparing staff to manage a
large volume of information
• Setting short and long term recovery priorities
• Establishing public information priorities to keep the public informed
of short and long term recovery efforts
• Resuming essential routine activities while enhancing the capability
to manage and carryout recovery efforts
D. Determine the need for modification, streamlining, or expediting local
government processes, permits and procedures to expedite the recovery
process.
E. Routine services may be reduced or suspended during the recovery
process.
F. Should the disaster impacts force the relocation of City services to
temporary sites, ensure that those departments have activated their
SOPs, and have all schedules, records and equipment necessary to
function at an alternate site.
G. Determine methods and guidelines for retrieving needed resources from
damaged City buildings and facilities.
H. Anticipate the need to set new priorities, reassign staff and hire /contract
additional temporary staff.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 20 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
9. RECOVERY TASK FORCE
A. Organization
The Recovery Task Force shall assist the Mayor in the successful
recovery efforts of the City. The Recovery Task Force shall include:
Community Services/ Economic Development Director, Development
Services Director, Fire Chief, Police Chief, Public Works Director, City
Engineer, Finance Director, Parks and Recreation Director, Human
Resources Director, and City Council representative.
The Community Services /Economic Development Director is the Disaster
Recovery Coordinator and will serve as chairperson of the Recovery Task
Force. The Disaster Recovery Coordinator maintains overall responsibility
for coordination of the recovery process and is responsible for
coordinating the establishment the policies and procedures for effectively
managing the recovery. The Mayor may designate an alternate Disaster
Recovery Coordinator as appropriate based on the type of disaster.
At the discretion of the Mayor and /or Disaster Recovery Coordinator,
additional individuals may be appointed to serve on the Recovery Task
Force to support specific recovery projects. These appointments may
include, but not be limited to:
• Local Communications Companies
• Transportation Representative
• Citizen Group Representative(s) (i.e., private citizen, small
business owner, large business owner, landlord representative,
etc.)
• City Attorney
• Chamber of Commerce
• Civic Groups
• Edmonds Community College
• ESCA
• School District
• Garbage Companies
• Water & Sewer Districts
• Utility Providers
• Public Transit Providers
• Port of Edmonds
• Hospital District
• State and Federal Agencies as Appropriate
The Recovery Task Force shall be established by local ordinance, with the
goals and scope of authority clearly stated. This Ordinance must be
enacted prior to a disaster.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 21 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
ill]
B. Role of the Recovery Task Force
The Recovery Task Force provides coordination and oversight of the
recovery and reconstruction process. The Task Force will serve as an
advisory committee to local officials responsible for recovery activities.
The Task Force will also help to identify mitigation opportunities, identify
resources and ensure maximum control over the recovery process. The
group's responsibilities would include, but not be limited to:
• Preparing a redevelopment plan
• Developing procedures for re- construction policies
• Developing policies for redevelopment in areas sustaining repeated
disaster damage
• Developing policies that promote mitigation from future damage
• Developing priorities for acquiring damaged properties
• Establishing fees for permitting
• Develop policies for temporary housing
The Recovery Task Force will develop a specific, more refined recovery
incident action plan. This event specific plan will define a phased recovery
program with a priority of work plan, i.e. priorities and actions to be taken
to:
• Eliminate life- threatening conditions
• Restore utility and transportation services
• Provide and restore suitable housing conditions
• Resume normal economic activity
• Expedite the securing of financial assistance from both the public
and private sectors
• Restore other important City services to normal levels
• Restore the City's physical facilities, both public and private, such
as street lighting, street cleaning, traffic control, schools, etc.
• Return of all essential services (i.e. water, sewage, utilities, refuse
pickup, etc.)
• Return personnel to normal work schedules and assignments
DAMAGE ASSESSMENT
Damage assessment and impact analysis are essential to determining the extent
of a disaster's impact on the City of Edmonds. They are necessary for the
determination of recovery priorities, identification of needed recovery resources,
justification of State and Federal assistance, identification of unsafe structures
and the provision of detailed information regarding the situation, location, extent
and nature of damage. These impacts will be listed and prioritized.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 22 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
Damage assessment will occur as soon as possible after an event in order to
assess the level of human suffering and determine the type and amount of
external support required.
/_1
IV
A
M
Direction and Control
Overall coordination of damage assessment activities rests with the
Recovery Coordinator. The damage assessment process will include staff
from all City departments capable of contributing to this effort.
Concept of Operations
The City will follow Damage Assessment procedures as described in the
City Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan Emergency Support
Function 23 and City Damage Assessment Procedures, separately
published documents.
Tracking Structures and Infrastructures
As building classifications are received, City Planners are responsible for
mapping and charting, organizing and filing the evaluations in anticipation
of future contact with citizens obtaining demolition permits, repair permits
or re- construction permits. The assessment information is provided to the
plan reviewers to assist them in the permit review process. It is
anticipated that a large percentage of homes will be repaired as opposed
to being demolished. The tracking of structures and infrastructures will be
closely related to the economic recovery goals identified by the City.
As detailed information regarding infrastructure damage is collected, City
Planners will compile the information and provide repair and /or
reconstruction cost estimates.
Preliminary Damage Assessment Reporting
Local emergency management personnel and the Recovery Task Force
will operate from the City EOC until the Recovery Coordinator determines
otherwise.
A Preliminary Damage Assessment shall be carried out any time there is a
potential for a Presidential Declaration of a disaster or it is requested by
State or County officials. This information shall be provided to the
Emergency Services Coordinating Agency in order to support the
Governor's disaster declaration to the President.
The City shall provide support to local, State and Federal officials in the
completion of Damage Survey Reports in order to expedite the availability
of Public and Individual Assistance Programs which provide support in the
overall recovery of the community.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 23 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
E. Building and Land Use Permitting
Following a disaster, the City has the opportunity to re- develop areas for
compliance with Comprehensive or Master plans and to require non-
conforming buildings to upgrade for compliance to bulk land use codes as
well as building and fire codes.
The Building Official and Planning Manager shall determine which policies
and procedures shall be instituted with regard to permitting, inspection,
enforcement, etc. based on the scope of the disaster.
POLICIES
• Emergency permitting policies shall be implemented by the Building
Official to expedite the demolition and removal of structures.
Demolition bond requirements may be waived. Citizens who have
non - conforming structures due to land use or setback
encroachments shall be instructed to obtain additional assistance
from Planning staff prior to the issuance of the demolition permit.
There shall be no grandfathering of structures without City review
and approval prior to demolition work.
• The Building Official and Planning Manager shall implement
Emergency Policies for emergency permitting, plan review, permit
issuance, building inspections, etc. Refer to the SOPs for the
Building and Planning Divisions for more specific guidelines and
policy and procedural questions and answers. Fast track permitting
could include: a short version of the building permit application,
faster, less detailed plan review, subject to field type permits, etc.
• The Planning Manager shall determine all Land Use grandfathering
issues which includes but is not limited to non - conforming buildings,
dots and uses, etc. consistent with adopted City regulations.
• Floodplain determinations shall be made by the Building Official
with regard to substantial improvement and substantially damaged
homes. No deviation from FEMA minimum standards shall be
granted.
• Moratorium Areas may be created by the Building Official or
Planning Manager due to geological issues, flood plain issues,
shoreline issues, critical areas issues, or other environmental
issues, etc.
• The Building Official shall determine what type of work may be
issued as `subject to field permits' for example, non - occupancy type
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 24 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
structures such as carports, garages, sheds, signs, rockeries,
grading, fences, etc.
• The Building Official shall prioritize the types of inspections and the
process based on the type of disaster. For example, if water and
sanitary services are not provided and that is the only issue
withholding occupancy this type of inspection shall become a
priority.
• Command and emergency operations facilities and health care
facilities shall have first priority inspection over single family
residential structures. Next, food stores, construction goods stores,
public buildings and operating facilities, educational institutions,
financial institutions, banks, credit companies, etc have top priority.
Single family un- inhabited structures such as garages, sheds,
fences, etc. shall have the lowest priority for inspection.
• The Recovery Task Force will decide how permit fees will be
collected based on one of the following options: permit fees
collected pursuant to pre- disaster policy, or permit fees billed with
the sewer /water bill at a monthly rate of $50.00 until full payment is
made. The City shall require insurance quotes for reconstruction to
include permit and inspection fees, so citizens are assured to
recoup the permit fee costs.
• Existing septic systems that are damaged due to the disaster shall
be required to be properly abandoned and the sewer shall be
connected to the nearest City public sewer main within 60 days of
the disaster unless the building to be served by the sewer is
abandoned or is scheduled to be demolished. The assessment fee
for sewer connection shall be the current fee adopted and the
sewer permit fee and inspection fee shall be paid by the applicant
at permit issuance unless determined differently by the Recovery
Task Force.
• Occupancy of a residence or business shall typically not be
withheld due to a broken septic, sewer or grinder /ejection pump
provided that no other life- safety hazards exist on site and
sanitation facilities are provided near the property as approved by
the Building Official.
• Non - conforming buildings that would be required under present day
code to have fire sprinkler or fire alarm systems may be repaired up
to 60% of the assessed building value without such upgrade.
However, if the building owner chooses to install a fire sprinkler
system the City shall waive the permit and inspection fees for the
fire sprinkler permit as an incentive for upgrade. Non - conforming
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 25 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
buildings that are damaged beyond repair that are to be rebuilt
must conform to all current fire sprinkler and fire alarm codes.
• In anticipation of an abundance of out -of -state contractors coming
into the community to perform construction work the following City
policies shall apply: general contractors who have valid current
licenses in another State may immediately start work under their
State license provided that within 30 days of working in the State of
Washington the contractor makes application for a State of
Washington contractor's license. The City shall provide a desk at
the Disaster Recovery Center for State Licensing officials to
expedite licensing. Out -of -state contractors who cannot produce a
valid contractor's license from another state shall not be permitted
to obtain a permit on behalf of a property owner nor be listed as a
contractor of record for permitted work. The City shall not sanction
the use of unlicensed contractors.
Every general contractor or subcontractor performing contracted
work within City limits is required to obtain a City business license.
The Recovery Task Force shall determine the appropriate
processing fee.
• All Registered Historic buildings may be repaired in kind. Buildings
that desire to be placed on the list after the disaster must request a
hearing with the Historic Preservation Commission and upon
approval of that board's findings must also gain approval from the
City's Emergency Hearing Examiner.
• Renters or tenants are not authorized under State law to apply for,
or obtain, building permits, including repair permits. Only property
owners or licensed contractors acting as agents, (as specified in
this policy section) can apply for and obtain building permits).
• Private single family dwellings damaged beyond safe occupancy
may utilize existing private travel trailers owned by said property
owner provided that it serves only the property owner's family until
the dwelling on site is repaired and occupancy is re- instituted
provided that sanitation disposal is handled properly as approved
by the Building Official. This shall apply to residential property only.
The maximum time for travel trailers to be used on private single
family property shall be one year from the date of the disaster
unless this timeline is extended by the Recovery Task Force. After
that time all such recreational vehicles shall cease to be used as a
dwelling.
• Any existing mobile home (pre 1973) within City limits that sustains
damage in excess of 50% of the assessed value of the building
shall be determined to be not habitable and beyond repair and shall
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 26 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
be required to be removed from City limits within 60 days of the
disaster. The City shall not require a State Inspector to make this
judgment. Pre - existing mobile homes on a site shall not create a
grandfather situation for zoning purposes.
• The Recovery Task Force shall determine if black label commercial
coaches or HUD labeled dwellings may be utilized as a dwelling for
limited amounts of time (provided adequate sanitation is provided).
• The Planning Manager shall evaluate reconstruction and zoning in
certain areas that include sensitive land use areas, areas targeted
for re- development or re- zoning and areas which need other
improvements. The Manager shall make recommendations for re-
building, re- zoning and other desirable community improvements.
The Manager shall create a pre- disaster policy for discretionary
emergency permit procedures and indicate what type of work may
request an emergency waiver from discretionary permit
requirements. Planning is also responsible for finding potential
funding sources for such improvements.
• Known or future high hazard cross connection businesses in the
City (for example, medical uses, funeral homes, dentist offices,
etc.) shall be required to upgrade the premises isolation by
providing an RPBA at the property line or provide the minimum
required cross connection to current code in order to regain
occupancy of the business.
• Known FOG (fats, oils and grease) violators shall be required to
upgrade to current sizing codes in order to regain occupancy of the
business.
• The City may choose to identify an off campus permitting center
such as a City Hall of a neighboring community if a disaster is
localized. Inter -local agreements shall be formed in advance of a
disaster for this purpose.
• The vesting of property rights under preceding zoning or building
codes shall not be immediately transferred but must be determined
by the emergency Hearing Examiner.
• It shall be City policy that when two or more public utilities
(telephone, cable, electricity) are destroyed due to a disaster that
all repaired public utilities including those remaining overhead
wiring shall be placed underground.
• It shall be City policy that all utilities be installed in common
trenches; it is preferred that only one trench or street cut be made
to provide services to one lot.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 27 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
F.
G.
• It shall be Division policy to review the policies and procedures of
Damage Assessment as well as existing ordinances and propose
changes as needed to suit the specific disaster.
• Emergency repairs for the purposes of shoring or bracing or
boarding shall be exempt from City permitting requirements.
• The City Engineer shall determine policies for compliance to
Chapter 18 of the Edmonds Community Development code.
• The Planning Manager must be assured that the Recovery Plan
prioritizes the elements of the Master Comp Plan.
Appeal Procedures for Disaster Hearings
The City shall develop policy and procedures for handling disputes with
property owners who disagree with occupancy classifications,
determinations of non - conformity, Hearing Examiner decisions, etc.
Appeals of process determinations made on the development code,
building or fire code specific to upgrades or substantial improvement
determinations shall be heard by the City designated entity. Appeal
meeting schedules will be held at regularly specified times, dates and
places as determined by the Recovery Task Force. The appeal fees shall
be determined by the Recovery Task Force.
Adjacent property owner notifications for the purpose of disaster hearings
are limited to notification within 60 feet of the property in question and
hand - delivered by the appellant. Since mail service may be disrupted, the
City shall accept a notarized service order posted on the subject property.
The appellant is required to assure delivery of all public notices for hearing
purposes. Hearing fees shall be established by the Recovery Task Force.
Appeals of process determinations made on the development code,
building or fire code specific to upgrades or substantial improvement
determinations shall be heard by the City designated Disaster Emergency
Hearing Examiner and Hearing Examiner pro -tem. Appeal meetings shall
be held Wednesdays and Thursday nights at a location to be announced.
The appeal fees shall be determined by the Recovery Task Force and be
dependant upon the number and time it takes to hear the case.
Absentee Property Owner Notification
The City will make every reasonable effort to allow out -of -area property
owners adequate time to arrange for repairs and /or demolition of their
property.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 28 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
11.
If a damaged structure presents an immediate hazard to health and
safety, the City reserves the right to demolish such structures after making
a good -faith effort to notify the property owner. Such actions will be
thoroughly documented by the City Building Official and City Attorney.
The Recovery Task Force shall determine policy and procedure on how
much additional time to provide out -of -area property owners to demolish
and /or repair their property.
PUBLIC INFORMATION AND OUTREACH
The provision of adequate and timely public information during disaster recovery
is essential to the overall success of recovery activities and maintaining good
community relations within the City. The City of Edmonds will provide
information to City employees, citizens, businesses and other organizations
concerning disaster recovery operations and progress; provide community
education on redevelopment activities and continue this effort throughout the
entire recovery process.
Communication with all sectors of the community is important throughout the
recovery process in order to maintain a positive attitude, dispel rumors and
provide the public with valuable information regarding such things as health
issues and assistance that is available to them.
A. Concept of Operations
The Mayor may appoint a Public Information Officer to coordinate
Recovery information to the public on behalf of the City. If the need
arises, the Emergency Services Coordinating Agency will facilitate the
formation of a Joint Information Center (JIC). Media briefings will normally
take place at an appropriate City location. In the event that this location is
not functional or communications are inadequate, an alternate site will be
identified and announced by the Public Information Officer.
Any, or all, of the following methods may be used to relay information to
the public:
• Print, radio, cable and television media
• City website
• Printed education /information materials
• Community bulletin boards
• Door -to -door contact
Printed education and information materials for distribution to the public
are available through ESCA and various City Departments.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 29 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
The public will need to be informed on a variety of topics, including, but
not limited to:
• General recovery information: intended to help the public through
post- disaster processes, i.e. property clean -up and debris
clearance strategies, building permits, contractor fraud, mail
delivery, replacing lost documents, etc.
• Health and welfare: assisting citizens in locating family members.
• Public safety information: re -entry policies, providing details on
passable roads, safe buildings, curfews, off -limit areas, etc.
• Public health: providing information regarding sanitation, food
safety, boil water orders, health hazards in the environment, etc.
• Where to get help: providing contact numbers for service agencies
• Redevelopment priorities and recovery timelines for repairs,
reconstruction projects and restoration of services
• Expectation management: reminding citizens that they are
responsible for their own recovery
Additional detail on Public Information can be found in Emergency Support
Function 15 — Public Affairs of the City's Comprehensive Emergency
Management Plan.
B. Public Briefings
Public briefings shall be held on a regular basis at a pre- designated site.
Representatives from other government agencies, as well as private
assistance program leaders, may be invited by the PIO to speak to
specific questions regarding services or programs they provide. Briefings
shall be scheduled at the discretion of the Disaster Recovery Coordinator.
Holding frequent briefings will help to discourage the spread of rumors.
These public briefings may include community forums and workshops
such as "Town Hall" meetings and liaisons with the Chamber of
Commerce, civic groups, homeowners associations, etc.
The PIO should be fully briefed and well - prepared for difficult questions.
Information provided should be clear, concise and factual.
C. Press Tours
The Public Information Officer (or designee) shall provide press tours of
the disaster site and recovery progress.
Press tours and site access will be determined, at the discretion of the
Mayor and Chief of Police, dependant upon the situation and disaster
event.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 30 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
01
E
Helicopter inspections of the disaster site may be granted at the discretion
of the Mayor and Chief of Police, in coordination with the Federal Aviation
Administration.
Rumor Control
Following a disaster, clear and factual information is of utmost importance.
In the absence of specific information, rumors will emerge. Uncontrolled
rumors can disrupt a community and reduce the credibility of the City and
other recovery agencies.
To help reduce the development of rumors the City may employ various
means of providing information directly to the public. These may include,
but are not limited to:
Hotlines or help - lines: dedicated telephone lines, staffed around
the clock, to provide the most current information available
Neighborhood flyers or newsletters, to be developed in coordination
with the City PIO: provided on a daily basis, a clear and concise
"fact sheet"
• See also above, Section A "Concept of Operations"
Disaster Recovery Center
After a disaster declaration has been made by the President, State and
FEMA officials will establish a Disaster Recovery Center near the disaster
area. Federal assistance is designed to supplement the efforts of State
and local governments. FEMA, in conjunction with state officials, is
responsible for administering and coordinating assistance to individuals
and families, businesses and local governments. FEMA will coordinate
federal disaster assistance efforts through a Joint Field Office. FEMA will
work closely with the State Coordinating Officer to assure effective
implementation of assistance programs.
The Disaster Recovery Center is a temporary operation established as
soon as possible after the disaster where victims can apply for available
services to meet disaster related needs. It is a one -stop center at which
disaster victims may access assistance from State and Federal agencies
as well as charitable organizations.
In the event a Disaster Recovery Center is to be located in the area,
personnel from the Joint Field Office will coordinate the establishment of
the facility through ESCA.
The types of assistance available at the Disaster Recovery Center vary
depending upon the needs created by the disaster. The assistance may
include, but not be limited to:
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 31 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
It
• Food, clothing and household goods
• Medical assistance
• Mental health counseling
• Repair assistance
• Individual and family grants
• Low interest loans
• Clean up kits
• Legal assistance
• Food Stamps
• Disaster unemployment benefits
• Tax information assistance
• Insurance information
• Housing and relocation assistance
• Veterans Administration and Social Security benefit
information
• Small Business Administration Loans
• Disaster repair and recovery information
• Disaster welfare information on missing or displaced persons
A Disaster Recovery Center may be located in a targeted neighborhood or
other central location. Staff at the Disaster Recovery Center may conduct
outreach efforts to ensure that all victims in the City have been identified
and offered assistance.
Unmet Needs
During recovery it is critical that a collaborative effort be established
between government and the private non - profit community. Federal and
state entities offer certain assistance to meet minimum short-term needs.
Short-term efforts typically focus on making impacted areas safe, sanitary
and secure. Voluntary organizations, interfaith groups, social service
organizations, community service organizations and community action
agencies often work together to provide direct assistance and supplement
government programs.
The City may, at the discretion of the Disaster Coordinator, form an Unmet
Needs Committee to coordinate and access resources at the community
level; consider needs that are not being addressed or have been denied
by other resources. Typical areas of involvement include:
• Individual assistance: essential furniture replacement,
emergency protection repairs, building supplies, donated
goods
• Advocacy: serve as an "ombudsman" to provide information,
investigate complaints and assist with disputes by directing
citizens to appropriate agencies for resolution
• Coordination and disbursement of donated monies
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 32 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
ESCA will assist the City of Edmonds with the coordination and provision
of resources necessary to address critical unmet needs for individuals and
families in the Edmonds community.
12. PUBLIC SAFETY
Maintenance of Public Safety during the Recovery Phase is a primary concern.
City Departments will work together to address these issues.
A. Curfew
The Mayor may determine that a City -wide curfew is necessary to
maintain public safety. A curfew may be required to help control looting,
protect private property and enhance general City security. If a curfew is
imposed by the Mayor, it will be enforced by the City Police Department.
B. Re -Entry
In the event that some areas of the City are determined to be unsafe
following completion of Damage Assessment activities, access to these
areas will be restricted. Extent of access will be determined by the posted
building safety classification. The City Police will monitor and control
access in and around dangerous areas.
Every effort will be made to promote and facilitate the timely re -entry of
essential response and recovery personnel, government officials, property
owners, business owners, media, etc. to speed the recovery of the City
and its economy. Specific limits to access (number of people; amount of
time on premises; allowable vehicles; presence of engineers and rescue
personnel, etc.) will be determined based upon the situation and disaster
event. These limits may escalate and de- escalate depending upon the
event. Decisions made by public safety officials will be explained in
writing to residents and building owners.
The Mayor may require citizens wishing to re -enter damaged structures to
sign an "Agreement to Assume Risk of Entering Endangered Structures."
See Appendix B for sample Agreement text.
C. Arson Control
In an effort to discourage the crime of arson, the City will endeavor to
provide enhanced security and timely removal of debris.
The Fire Department will coordinate and assist with a public education
campaign regarding arson and insurance fraud, as needed.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 33 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
191
D. Traffic Control
The Police Department will support the Engineering Division in the
management of traffic control issues. Safe and passable routes through
the City will be identified with detours and signage. Public Works will
provide barricades to deny access to restricted areas; and work to restore
damage signaling systems. The Engineering Division will coordinate as
necessary with surrounding jurisdictions and Washington State
Department of Transportation.
The Engineering Division, in cooperation with the Public Works
Department, will make recommendations to the Recovery Task Force
regarding priorities for the repair and /or reconstruction of City roads.
If deemed necessary by the Chief of Police, the City shall implement all
emergency towing contracts and all vehicles will be immediately removed
from the disaster area to pre- designated impoundment lots.
Vehicles tagged as police evidence by local or federal officials shall be
held in place pending the completion of Police investigation. Once a
vehicle is cleared by Police it shall be immediately removed to a pre -
designated impoundment lot. Within 60 days of impoundment, the Police
Department shall attempt to notify vehicle owners to allow for inspection
and insurance determination on the vehicle. Vehicles may be removed by
the owner, or the owner may sign the vehicle over to a towing company for
a fee to haul the vehicle to an approved dump or scrap site.
Unclaimed vehicles are defined as vehicles that have been stored at the
impound lot for 120 or more days. The City shall dispose of all unclaimed
vehicles as permitted by law.
DEBRIS MANAGEMENT
The clearance and disposal of debris is an important component of the Recovery
process. Well- coordinated debris removal is essential for successful restoration
activities. Overall coordination of the debris removal process rests with the
Public Works Department. As City resources may not be sufficient to meet
emergency requirements for debris removal, the City will coordinate with County
and Regional agencies and providers. The City shall exhaust all debris removal
resources before requesting State assistance.
See Appendix C: Disaster Debris Operations, Memorandum of Understanding.
A. Removal
Debris removal efforts shall focus on the clearing of major transportation
routes to allow for the movement of emergency vehicles, emergency
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 34 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
resources and supplies, pedestrian access and to provide access for
repairs of infrastructure. Debris removal must begin as soon as possible
to protect public health and safety, and to provide access to the disaster
site. The Public Works Department, in coordination with the Recovery
Task Force, will determine the order of priority for debris removal in
affected areas.
Debris removal may extend well beyond the response phase and have a
significant impact on recovery activities throughout the City, such as
restoration of utilities and facilities, and repair, reconstruction or demolition
of damaged structures.
Hazardous waste issues can arise and complicate debris removal.
Removal workers should be alert for improperly disposed substances.
Failure to follow hazardous waste regulations can subject the City to
significant fines and penalties.
The City shall utilize Snohomish County pre- disaster hauling agreements
or develop separate agreements with private companies, as deemed
necessary. Specialty haulers shall be identified. Qualified vendors must
have or obtain a City Occupation License; and be licensed and bonded.
Solicitation and awarding of debris hauling contracts must meet the
following:
• Contract services must be of reasonable cost
• Procurement practices must be compliant with City practices
• Procurement practices must be compliant with procurement
regulations specified in the Code of Federal Regulations Title 44
(44 CFR) 13.36
Hauling contracts will be one of the following three types:
• Time and Materials — These contracts will be limited to the first 70
hours of operation and only after local and State equipment has
been committed. The price for equipment applies only when the
equipment is operating, the City can terminate the contract at its
convenience, and the City does not guarantee a minimum number
of hours
• Lump Sum — The price of the work is fixed unless there is a change
in the scope of work to be performed. Lump sum contracts will be
calculated on either the "area" method or the "pass" method. The
lump sum contract shall be used only when the scope of work is
clearly defined and the areas of work can be specifically quantified
Unit Price — This is the most accurate account of actual quantities
removed. This contract requires field inspectors to eliminate
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 35 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
N
contractor fraud. All contractor trucks must be measured.
Requires load tickets identifying truck number, contract number,
contractor's name, date, time departed site and estimated volume.
All contracts shall be reviewed and approved by the City Attorney.
Temporary Storage
Disaster - generated debris will quickly overwhelm local disposal sites. In
anticipation of this, the City will pre- determine appropriate sites to be used
as temporary debris storage areas. The City will coordinate with
Snohomish County as necessary and appropriate.
See Appendix C: Disaster Debris Operations, Memorandum of
Understanding.
Possible sites for temporary storage of disaster debris shall be chosen
based on the following criteria:
• Location — sites should be accessible to areas particularly
susceptible to disasters (e.g. near urban centers, freeway
exchanges)
• Size — sites should be of sufficient size to allow for the storage of
disaster debris materials and the safe movement of vehicles
• Compatible Land Use — sites should be identified in areas with land
uses that are compatible with heavy truck traffic, dust and noise
• Protection From Additional Disaster Events — sites should be
situated away from known earthquake faults, outside of 100 -yr
floodplains and away from areas susceptible to liquefaction,
subsidence or massive landslides
• Avoidance of Environmentally Sensitive Areas — sites should avoid
environmentally sensitive areas such as wetlands and endangered
species habitats.
In addition to the use of City -owned sites, the City may contract with
private land owners to use property for temporary storage of disaster
debris. In all cases, public and private land will be subject to
environmental assessment before and after use. All contracts for land
lease will include any necessary clean -up following debris removal.
The City will address the issues of zoning and permitting necessary for
temporary storage of debris on public and /or private land.
Waste Reduction /Recycling
Waste reduction and recycling activities will reduce the amount of debris
needing to be removed. Possible reduction methods include recycling,
grinding, chipping, burying and burning.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 36 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
14.
15.
• Recycling: Recycling of debris materials may have economic value
if the recovered material can be sorted and sold. At a minimum
there are avoided costs derived from recycling materials as
opposed to direct landfill disposal. Metals, woods and soils are all
possibly recyclable. Staging of materials at the temporary storage
sites may present the opportunity to adequately separate and sort
recoverable materials for recycling and reuse.
• Grinding and Chipping: Vegetation debris may be chipped and
used for mulch. Damaged trees that can be sold for processing
shall be collected at pre - determined sites for future sales by the
City.
• Burying: Burying debris can be a safe and economical method of
debris disposal, provided no hazardous materials are present.
Burying debris requires an emergency permit available from the
Department of Natural Resources and the Environmental Protection
Agency.
• Burning: It is unlikely that open burning of debris would be allowed
within the City. However, emergency permitting may be available
through the Environmental Protection Agency. Air curtain pit
incineration and /or portable incinerators may be used to reduce
environmental concerns.
The City will provide guidance to Edmonds residents regarding the
separation and preparation of materials for recycling and /or reduction.
D. Disaster debris operations will be coordinated with the Snohomish County
Department of Public Works, Solid Waste Division. See Appendix C:
Disaster Debris Operations Memorandum of Understanding (under
development).
HUMAN SERVICES
The City of Edmonds will conduct a post- disaster human services needs
assessment in order to identify individuals and families who need various human
services following a disaster. The identified needs will be met through
coordination with public and private organizations. The ESCA will assist the City
of Edmonds in identifying community based resources in order to obtain relief
services and supplies.
PUBLIC HEALTH
Continuation of public health functions and control of environmental factors
related to public health is essential following a disaster to prevent the outbreak of
disease and to monitor the spread of vectors associated with the disaster itself.
Ensuring continuing monitoring and assessment of potential public health and
safety threats, shall include, but not be limited to:
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 37 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
• Potable water, wastewater and solid waste disposal sites
• Health threats in damaged homes and other buildings
• Health threats from vector -borne diseases; inspecting sites where
vector -borne diseases may develop
• Soil contamination
• Water quality and supply
• Food quality and supply
• Air quality
• Sanitation in temporary housing, shelters and comfort stations
• Port-a- Potty /Sani -can waste disposal
The Snohomish Health District will provide support to the City on various
Recovery issues relating to public health and safety threats.
A. Water Quality
The water system of the City of Edmonds is regulated by the Department
of Health (DOH). In the event the City's water system is compromised,
the Health District will be notified by DOH and will work in collaboration
with DOH to monitor the situation. The Health District will work to provide
information on resources and technical advice to area residents.
The Snohomish Health District will also provide educational information
and technical advice to private well owners.
B. Contamination
The Snohomish Health District will respond to and evaluate complaints of
soil, ground water and surface water contamination issues. The District
will provide information and technical advice regarding clean -up of
contaminated areas.
C. Hazardous Materials
The Snohomish Health District will provide consulting and inspections
regarding compliance with hazardous waste storage /disposal regulations,
and will provide survey and educational services to households and small
businesses.
The Health District is not a First Responder in hazardous materials
incidents, but may work in coordination with the First Responders in such
events.
D. Animal Control
The Snohomish Health District will enforce regulations regarding the
proper disposal of animal carcasses and animal waste. The District will
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 38 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
inspect and permit solid waste facilities which receive animal carcasses
and /or waste.
E. Vector Control
The Snohomish Health District will enforce existing regulations regarding
vector control and proper disposal of garbage.
F. Immunization
The Snohomish Health District is the lead Agency to coordinate and
provide immunizations and prophylaxis to control and /or prevent
communicable disease.
G. Testing
The Snohomish Health District will coordinate with local healthcare
providers and private and state laboratories to provide medical specimen
collection and testing. Test results will determine the Health District's
investigation and control measures needed to safeguard public health.
16. COMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE
A. Telephone
The Information Services Department will determine the status of the
City's communication systems and coordinate restoration as necessary.
B. Internet/Email Service
The City of Edmonds contracts with an outside provider for email /internet
service. The Information Services Department will coordinate with the
provider to ensure restoration of service as needed.
17. ESSENTIAL SERVICE RESTORATION
The City of Edmonds will cooperate with government agencies and the private
sector to return the public infrastructure and City services to pre -event levels or
better, by assisting in the re- establishment of essential public commercial
services and necessary utilities; working with appropriate County, State or
Federal entities to facilitate the restoration of roadways and utilities immediately
following a disaster; and correcting deficiencies in public and private
infrastructure following an area -wide disaster.
Restoration of utility services is critical to the success of the short and long -term
recovery programs. Complete utility restoration could take months. Restoration
of the commercial power supply will be the pacing activity for reestablishing water
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 39 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
and sewer systems, and the restoration of power will be paced by the clearance
of debris along the transmission line rights -of -way.
The City of Edmonds Public Works Department will develop an initial public
infrastructure and services impact assessment to identify: restoration needs of
essential services; restoration needs of the transportation system and restoration
needs of the communication system. Every effort will be made to cooperate and
coordinate with service providers in the planning and decision making process.
This assessment will be provided to the Recovery Task Force to aid in the
identification of service restoration priorities.
Mitigation measures will be identified and applied as appropriate in facility and
service restoration activities.
A. Electricity
The City of Edmonds contracts with the Snohomish Public Utility District
#1 for electricity. The Public Works Department will coordinate with the
PUD to facilitate timely restoration of services. Restoration of electrical
service and communication systems will begin as soon as major
transportation routes are cleared of debris to allow emergency vehicles
and crews to enter the disaster area.
B. Water and Sewer
The Public Works Department and the Olympic View Water and Sewer
District maintain the City's water and sewer systems. Following initial
damage assessment, the Department and District will work to assess
water quality; eliminate or isolate hazardous conditions; prioritize repairs;
remove debris and begin repairs.
If warranted by the situation, the Public Works Department and Olympic
View will organize emergency water distribution and install supplementary
or temporary water sources, such as wells or tankers.
C. Gas
The natural gas provider for the City of Edmonds is Puget Sound Energy.
The Public Works Department will coordinate with PSE to facilitate timely
restoration of services.
D. Storm Drainage and Surface Water Management
The Public Works Department maintains the City's storm -water system.
Following initial damage assessment, the Department will work to
eliminate hazardous conditions; prioritize repairs; remove debris and begin
repairs.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 40 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
ill-]
E. Public Buildings
All City of Edmonds facilities, including the library, police and fire stations,
recreation center and pools, will be inspected for damage. Should these
facilities be deemed uninhabitable, alternate space shall be located and
obtained. Partially affected buildings will be restored to usability and
continuing custodial service will be provided for operating public buildings.
F. Parks and Recreation
All parks, playgrounds, stadiums and other recreational facilities will be
inspected for damage and suitability for use as a resource staging and /or
temporary debris staging areas.
TRANSPORTATION
The Public Works Department and Engineering Division will coordinate and
oversee restoration of the City's transportation infrastructure. The Department
will coordinate with adjacent cities and Washington State Department of
Transportation as needed to maintain principal roadway networks.
A. Roads and Bridges
Following initial damage assessment, the Engineering Division of the
Development Services Department will set priorities for restoration of the
City's roadways. The Division will coordinate with the Publics Works
Department to determine a schedule for debris removal and cleaning of
major roadways. Public Works shall strive to maintain street maintenance
services in unaffected areas.
B. Lighting
The Public Works Department will inspect the City streetlight system, and
work with the Snohomish County PUD to restore service as necessary.
C. Traffic Signals and Signs
The Public Works Department and Engineering Division will work to repair
and /or replace traffic control systems as necessary; prepare alternative
traffic routing and traffic control plans; prepare alternate pedestrian routing
and signage and maintain rights -of -way for emergency vehicles.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 41 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
19. BUILDING INSPECTION
V
C
A
Code Revisions
The Building and Planning Divisions of the Development Services
Department and Fire Department will determine which, if any, adopted
land use or City Building Codes require revisions or exemptions to best
accommodate reconstruction. The City will prepare draft documents prior
to the disaster in anticipation of necessary changes.
Enforcement
Repair and reconstruction projects must be closely monitored. The City
Building Official will pre- determine permit requirements and the Recovery
Task Force will determine permit fees. The City will provide regular and
timely inspections of on -going projects. The City may contract with private
inspectors, licensed engineers and /or inspectors from neighboring cities to
provide services as necessary.
Non - conforming Structures
Recovery from disaster provides the City with the opportunity to address
non - conforming structures within the community. Demolition or
reconstruction of non - conforming structures shall comply with the
regulations found in Chapter 17 of the Edmonds Community Development
Code. Issues of compliance to bulk zoning standards and variance criteria
must be addressed. These policies also must include a determination of
whether older structures will be rebuilt to older codes, or be brought to
current code standards.
Unsafe Structures
Through the Damage Assessment process, the City will identify which
structures are deemed unsafe. The City will determine what level of
damage warrants demolition as opposed to reconstruction. Buildings
damaged more than 75% of their assessed valuation, as determined by
the Building Official, shall be demolished. Careful assessment of unsafe
structures may lead to building code revisions to help mitigate damage
from future disasters.
Contractor Licensing /Monitoring
The Building and Planning Divisions will oversee the licensing and
monitoring of both local and out -of -area contractors working in the City.
The City will attempt to exercise due diligence in the oversight of
contractors, but improprieties may occur and citizens must be wary. The
City Clerks office is responsible to oversee local business license
requirements.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 42 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
F. Construction Fraud
The Building and Planning, Community Development and /or other
appropriate Departments will coordinate with the City PIO to provide
Public Education materials to inform citizens of the best ways to retain a
contractor and avoid corrupt or dishonest contractors.
20. REVIEW OF EXISTING PLANS
Q
A
Land Use
The City of Edmonds reviews its Land Use Plan on an annual basis. It is
reviewed in coordination with the annual review cycle of the City's
Comprehensive Plan.
Capital Improvement
The City of Edmonds reviews and updates its Capital Improvement Plan
on an annual basis.
Pre - Disaster Mitigation
The City of Edmonds is a signatory to the North King and South
Snohomish Counties Regional Mitigation Plan. The City will review the
Plan on an annual basis and incorporate mitigation actions into day -to -day
operations as appropriate.
21. RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
A. Resource Lists
The Finance Department will create a Resource List which should include,
but not be limited to:
• Banks and Financial Institutions
• Clinics and Medical Providers
• Communications Services
• Counseling and Mental Health Providers
• Debris Removal Contractors
• Food Banks
• Fuel Providers
• Generator Sales and /or Rentals
• Hardware Retailers
• Heavy Equipment Contractors and /or Rentals
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 43 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
22.
• Media Outlets
• Medical Supplies Vendors
• Pharmacies
• Portable Toilets
• Potable Water
• Pumping Services and /or Rentals
• Real Estate and Housing Agencies
• Refrigerated Trailers
• Schools
• Structural Engineers
• Truck Rental
• Translators
• Utilities
• Veterinarians
• Welding Equipment and Supplies
The Finance Department will work with vendors and service providers to
establish working relationships and pre- determined contracts as deemed
necessary.
See Appendix D: City Resource List
B. Resource Distribution and Management
During Recovery operations, City resources will be managed by the
Department which normally controls the specific resource. In a regional
disaster, City Departments must ensure their resource needs are met
before releasing resources to Mutual Aid partners.
SHORT TERM HOUSING
Temporary housing is interim housing that people occupy between the time they
leave emergency shelter and the time that they are able to move back into their
homes. Disaster Housing Assistance eligibility for individuals and households is
based on need, defined by "displacement and lack of adequate insurance
coverage, or resources to immediately satisfy adequate alternate housing
needs." People with "Loss of Use" coverage included in their homeowners
insurance should be properly covered for financing temporary housing. The Red
Cross may be able to help renters and those without this coverage. If a
Presidential Declaration is obtained, FEMA may also assist with the expense.
Although temporary housing for individuals and households will be managed by
FEMA, the City of Edmonds will be a visible advocate for its disaster victims.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 44 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
A. Usable Housing Stock
The City will determine usable housing stock through the Damage
Assessment process. Structures deemed safe for entry and habitation
with minimal damage will be considered usable housing stock.
B. Additional Housing Sources
To provide temporary housing, the City will consider the use of motels,
dormitories and available rental units as possible housing sources. The
City will work to establish relationships with the property owners to
facilitate the use of facilities as temporary housing.
C. Rentals
The City of Edmonds has 679 apartment buildings. The Development
Services Department and Building /Planning Division will work with
apartment complex managers /owners to identify vacant rental units within
the City and surrounding communities.
See Appendix E: Inventory of Multiple Housing Units
D. Mobile Homes and Parks
The City of Edmonds has one mobile home park with 24 units. Vacant
spaces within the park, if undamaged, may be considered for use as
temporary housing. These properties may also provide space for
placement of temporary trailers and /or mobile homes. The Recovery Task
Force will determine what ordinances must be in place to allow this type of
temporary housing.
E. Location of Temporary Housing Units
The location of temporary housing units must be pre - planned in order to
provide the housing in a reasonable amount of time. Pre - planning is
essential to determine the level of infrastructure needed on site, such as:
safety and security needs, sanitation and utility requirements. These
issues must be addressed prior to the installation of temporary units.
Temporary housing may be financed through private insurance, the
American Red Cross, FEMA or private donation.
The use of tents and travel trailers /campers on private property may be
allowed. If so, this use will be allowed by City Ordinance and the
Recovery Task Force will establish an end date for the units to be
vacated.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 45 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
23.
1±Z1I
F. Low Income
Finding temporary housing for low- income citizens may be difficult. The
City must be ready to help citizens whose needs are not addressed by
currently available government programs. The City will consider the
creation of a housing task force to help address these issues.
LONG TERM HOUSING
A. Replacement of Existing Structures
The City may conduct a housing survey to help determine the long term
housing needs of the citizens. Not all destroyed housing will need to be
replaced. Public assistance may be available for citizens to help repair or
replace their damaged homes. If warranted by the situation, the City may
consider a Buyout Program of homes located in floodplain, sensitive or
landslide prone areas. The Building and Planning Divisions will make
recommendations regarding zoning, rebuilding and new construction.
B. New Development
The City may consider placing moratoriums on rebuilding and
development to allow for studies of alternatives for land use and. zoning.
C. Low Income
The City may develop deferred -loan or other housing programs to aid low -
income citizens.
See Appendix F: Housing Assistance
ECONOMIC RESTORATION AND DEVELOPMENT
There is a mutual interdependency between government and business. When
one has a problem the other needs to provide support. When both are affected,
they need to work together to fully recover. Events that happen in the community
can affect any organization. The City of Edmonds will work with the private
sector to expedite the restoration of business and industry in the post- disaster
environment. This cooperation may include:
• Determination of sites and facilities that could be used as
temporary business locations
• Determination of the feasibility of establishing a tax - deductible
business relief fund, that can accept relief contributions for
businesses
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 46 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
I
• With the local banking community, determine the feasibility of and
criteria for "bridge loans" for businesses immediately following a
disaster
• Provide a City liaison to work with the business community during
recovery
• Set -up a process to keep business people involved in community -
wide recovery decisions
• Ensure public meetings are conducted to explain economic
redevelopment plans, activities and priorities
Economic Recovery Priorities
The City Business Liaison shall provide comment to the Recovery Task
Force on economic recovery priorities and issues, such as:
• Reestablishing the tourist industry
• Reestablishing the banking and financial community
• Promoting redevelopment opportunities in damaged areas that
enhance recreational and commercial activities
• Examining the use of temporary structures to allow damaged
business and other economic enterprises to carry out their activities
until their damaged facility is rebuilt or replaced
• Assuring compliance with building codes
• Assuring compliance with construction standards to comply with
future disaster assistance criteria from Federal /state agencies
• Determining new types of construction to use in repairing and
rebuilding damaged firms
Small Business Preparedness
Historically, the small business sector in communities beset by
catastrophic disaster has not fared well. Under capitalization, absence
of /or inadequate insurance coverage, single unit locations (no other non -
disaster affected locations to sustain /supplant cash flow) diminution or
loss of market/revenues, are often cited as causative factors leading to the
loss of 70 -85% of the small businesses in a post- disaster community. The
only effective remedy to this potentially devastating outcome is
preparedness planning. Regrettably, the level of preparedness planning
in the business community, not atypically, is poor. Extensive, continuous
public relations efforts aimed at business owners should be made with the
objective of prioritizing disaster preparedness planning for every business
owner /manager. This is the only productive measure that promises to
remediate the prospective loss of a substantial part of the business
community and thus the course of economic recovery.
Businesses, like individuals, need to understand that they are responsible
for their own recovery. The Economic Development Director will engage
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 47 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
the local business community and encourage disaster preparedness
planning among local small businesses
4xH_1I
A. Legal Counsel
The City Attorney will be responsible for advising City Officials and the
Recovery Task Force on policies related to the legal aspects of recovery.
The City Attorney will review all contracts for recovery projects. The City
Attorney will also advise on such issues as Mutual Aid agreements, social
controls, price controls and equity of service for citizens.
B. Ordinance Development and Review
All City Ordinances will be developed under the guidance of and reviewed
by the City Attorney to ensure consistency with local, State and Federal
requirements.
26. FINANCIAL
A. Fiscal Management
The Finance Department is responsible for continued fiscal management
of City monetary resources and reserves even during a disaster.
B. Tax Base
The Finance Department shall prepare detailed analysis regarding
financial and economic impacts upon the City's tax base and
infrastructure.
C. Project Costs
The Finance Department shall develop a system for tracking costs
associated with disaster recovery projects. This system shall include, but
not be limited to, the accounting of: personnel time and attendance,
contract work, equipment purchase /lease, supplies procurement, tax
adjustments and other related expenditures.
D. Insurance Claims
The Finance Department maintains overall responsibility for reporting
damages and claims to insurance carriers and other agencies involved in
funding disaster losses.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 48 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
E. Project Budgeting
The Finance Department will support the Recovery Task Force in the
creation of recovery project budgets.
F. Donations
After a disaster, local government can expect to receive donations and
must, therefore, have policies and procedures in place for accepting and
dispensing the donations. Likewise, individuals and groups will volunteer
to help and there need be policies and procedures to make use of this
valuable resource.
The Finance Department will develop a system for the management and
tracking of donations received by the City. This system should include
methods to:
• Determine present and future needs for donated goods (types and
approximate numbers) and what kinds of goods may be required
• Set -up a mechanism to receive cash donated specifically for
disaster victims; publicize where to send donations and how to
make out the checks
• Decide how, where and when to distribute donated funds
• Receive offers of non -cash donated goods
• Ensure procedures are established for receiving, storing, sorting
and distributing donated goods to include accepting special types of
donations (i.e. perishable materials, etc.)
• Establish and implement procedures for disposing of unneeded or
unusable items
27. DOCUMENTATION AND RECORDS
Documentation of resources used and costs associated with a disaster incident
will be necessary to justify state and federal disaster assistance and to receive
reimbursement of eligible expenses. Documentation is the key to recovering
emergency response and recovery costs. Damage Assessment documentation
will be critical in establishing the basis for eligibility of disaster assistance
programs. Failure to document could result in a major loss of funds.
The Finance Department will establish accounting and documentation
procedures to track all recovery activities including, but not limited to:
• Financial Donations
• Guidelines for Resource Procurement
• Recordkeeping for Expenditures
• Monitoring Contract Work
• Personnel Time and Attendance
• Local Funding Sources, i.e. re- budgeting, bonds and taxes
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 49 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
Tax Adjustments
A. Financial
The Finance Department is responsible for maintaining all financial
records of the City. Federal disaster assistance and /or reimbursement is
contingent upon accurate documentation of local recovery expenditures.
The Finance Department will be responsible for determining
documentation requirements for insurance claims as well as State and
Federal Assistance programs.
B. Project
Documentation of recovery projects will be done by the Finance
Department, in coordination with the City Department responsible for the
specific project.
C. Vital Records Protection
The City of Edmonds maintains its records in accordance with RCW 40.10
Essential Records Act, and follows the Washington State General
Records Retention Schedule for Agencies of Local Government. The City
has identified its essential records and a method of protecting each record
is indicated by one or more of the following methods:
• Non - current essential records are transferred to Washington State
Archives, Northwest Regional Branch, Western Washington
University, Bellingham, Washington
• Current essential records are stored in metal drawer file cabinets
• Microfilming of essential records; security roll stored at the
Washington State Archives, 1129 Washington Street SE, Olympia,
Washington
• Duplicate copy or electronic back -up of data stored off site. The off
site archive centers are located at: Old Public Works Building, 200
2nd Avenue, Edmonds; New Public Works Building, 7110 210th
Street SW, Edmonds; City Clerk's Office, 121 5th Avenue N,
Edmonds
• Additional sites storing copies of documents: Code Publishing,
9410 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle; Snohomish County Auditor,
3000 Rockefeller, Everett; ESCA, 2901 228th Street SW, Suite A,
Brier; Washington Cities Insurance Authority, Tukwila, Washington
28. STAFF MANAGEMENT
A. Safety and Risk Management
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 50 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
The City of Edmonds will endeavor to ensure that a safe and healthful
working and living environment be maintained for local government
recovery personnel and others; provide guidelines to minimize the risk of
injury or illness to City personnel, mutual aid personnel and volunteers
who are involved in disaster response, recovery or mitigation operations;
and for victims and citizens.
The City will take all reasonable steps to protect personnel from disaster -
related hazards, including, but not limited to:
• Compliance with safety and health standards established by
the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
and other regulatory bodies
• Ensure personnel are fitted and trained in the use of
Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)
• Ensure personnel have adequate information about the
potential safety and health hazards that they may face, and
mitigation measures that may be employed
• Identify hazards at disaster site(s)
• Ensure that mutual aid personnel observe all normal safety
and health practices of their respective agencies
• Establish a system for accomplishing required follow -up
safety and health activities after recovery
• Develop a standard reporting system to centrally document
the occurrence of disaster - related illnesses and injuries
• Coordinate the acquisition of equipment to mitigate the
effects of the anticipated hazards to the greatest degree
possible
Some common safety problems that might be encountered in a disaster
include the following:
• Wet or uneven floors, broken walkways
• Sharp edges or materials in work areas
• Falling objects
• Unprotected or ungrounded electrical circuits, loose wiring
• Road hazards and traffic safety issues
Some common health problems that might be encountered in a disaster
include the following:
• Ergonomic issues related to lifting, carrying
• Repetitive motion injuries
• Reactions to particulate matter, chemicals, radioactive
materials or microbial contaminants
• Exposure to weather extremes
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 51 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
C
A
IN
A
• Physical damage resulting from a failure to wear protective
equipment
Additional Staffing Needs
In order to meet Recovery Operations staffing needs, the City may
supplement existing City staff with contract and /or temporary employees.
The Human Resources Department will be responsible for identifying
staffing needs and sources for filling shortfalls. Additional personnel
resources may be obtained through pre- existing mutual aid agreements
with schools and labor organizations. City Departments will retain
responsibility for day to day supervision of their work force, but shall
coordinate personnel needs through the Human Resources Department.
Temporary Assignments
During Recovery operations, non - essential activities may be suspended.
Personnel not assigned to essential duties may be reassigned to other
Departments in order to provide support services. City employees
required to work either overtime or out of class will be compensated in
accordance with existing rules and bargaining unit agreements.
The City will endeavor to arrange sufficient staffing levels to allow
employees adequate time off for respite, and to avoid extensive hours on
duty.
Counseling and Stress Management
Increased stress at all levels of operations is to be expected. Additional
responsibilities, increased workload and personal concerns all contribute
to employee stress during Recovery Operations. City officials will make
every effort to support City employees. The Human Resources
Department will be responsible for the coordination and implementation of
stress management programs. City employees will be encouraged to
make use of the Employee Assistance Program.
Recognition
City Officials will strive to recognize achievement and performance by City
employees and volunteers. Recognition can be given verbally, in personal
letters, certificates, news releases and /or public announcements. The City
may also consider a recognition event for staff and volunteers.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 52 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
G. Volunteers
Volunteers will provide an important staffing resource for the City. The
Human Resources Department will coordinate and oversee the
registration of temporary volunteer workers. Volunteers will be provided
with a prepared job classification questionnaire for each type of job
needed and a written checklist of duties; and will be provided with relevant
training for their assignments. Volunteer work hours will be documented
and tracked for the duration of the Recovery process.
City of Edmonds — Recovery Plan 53 Adopted by Edmonds City Council 1/27/09
Affidavit of Publication
STATE OF WASHINGTON,
COUNTY OF SNOHOMISH } S.S.
i.
Ian I89�
SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE
o the ity o Edmonds,
On the 27th day of January, 2009, it
City of Edmonds, passed Ordinance No
the content-of said ordinance, consistini
as follows:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF E
INGTON, AUTHORIZING THE ADi
CITY OF EDMONDS DISASTER F
A H T LI H ENT F
EDMONDS DISASTER RECOVERY
The full text of this Ordinance will be n
DATED this 28th day of January, 200£
CITY CLERK,
Published: February 1, 2009,
The undersigned, being first duly sworn on oath deposes and says that she is Principal Clerk of
THE HERALD, a daily newspaper printed and published in the City of Everett, County of
Snohomish, and State of Washington; that said newspaper is a newspaper of general
circulation in said County and State; that said newspaper has been approved as a legal
newspaper by order of the Superior Court of Snohomish County and that the notice
Summary of Ordinance No. 3724
Authorizing the Adoption of the City of Edmonds Disaster Recovery
724
m a,
Council of the Plan
A summary of
title, preyides
DS, .WASH- a printed co of which is hereunto attached, was published in said newspaper ro er and not
V� OF THE � P PY P proper
ERY P9AN in supplement form, in the regular and entire edition of said paper on the following days and
as F
ORCE.. times, namely:
pon request.
IA S:''CHASE February 01, 2009
and that said newspaper was regularly distributed to its subscribers during all of said period.
U T
Subscribed and swom to before me this 2nd
RE,�.1 -H day of February, 2009
FEB - 9'2009
Notary Public in a for a State of x iZ tUp `Atv, at Evere , Snohomish
EDit�1S CITY CLERK County. L,� % ;z ,, �s
Aid
t> ,i
Account Name: City of Edmonds Account Number. 10149 �1; } YJ 'gclumber. 0001634097
OF