Preemptive Disaster Declaration

[Colleen Pate]

Council:

I want to give everyone a heads up that tomorrow morning at 11:00 AM, I’ll join Travis County Judge Andy Brown to issue a preemptive disaster declaration, so that we’re prepared to respond as quickly and effectively as possible in the event of a wildfire.

The Governor has issued a disaster declaration that includes Travis County. I’ve personally talked to Nim Kid, the Chief of the Texas Department of Emergency Management about the Governor’s declaration, the value of my issuing a declaration and, of course, the status of our current conditions creating the reasons for such a declaration. I’ve also talked with Judge Brown.

As you know, the City Charter and Texas law gives authority to the mayor to declare a disaster under certain circumstances. After the discussions I’ve mentioned above and in consultation with the City of Austin professional staff in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, I have exercised my authority to make such a declaration related to potential wildfires. A copy of the declaration is attached.

http://assets.austintexas.gov/austincou ... 204951.pdf

Texas law requires that in the case of such a declaration, the City Council needs to ratify the action for the declaration to last longer than 7 days. An item to extend the disaster declaration will be added to the addendum for the October 24 agenda. I’m asking that we extend the declaration for 30 days. This will correspond with the County’s plan and it will also allow us time to reevaluate the situation.

I, along with our HSEM staff, will report additional information as it becomes available between now and the 24th and throughout the 30-day period.

If you have any questions, please let me know. I appreciate your support in this matter.

Kirk

On Behalf of Mayor Watson

[Mackenzie Kelly]

Thank you, Mayor Watson, for bringing this forward. As someone uniquely aware of the wildfire risk, I’m thankful for this preemptive disaster declaration. Wildfires pose a significant threat to our community, and being prepared ahead of time is critical. I appreciate the proactive approach you're taking, along with Judge Brown, and our partners at the State, to ensure we are ready to respond swiftly if needed. I'll fully support extending this declaration, knowing it aligns with our focus on protecting the safety of our residents.

Warm Regards,

mk