MWDOC Updates Hazard Mitigation Plan with Community Collaboration by Municipal Water District of Orange County Nov 25, 2024 Member Submitted News The Municipal Water District of Orange County (MWDOC) and Water Emergency Response Organization of Orange County (WEROC) participating agencies are in the process of updating the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP) to strengthen community safety and resilience. This five-year plan is a vital roadmap for addressing local vulnerabilities and detailing strategies to reduce disaster risks. Developed with input from agency staff, elected officials, partners, public safety teams, and the community, the MJHMP prioritizes collaborative engagement. An active hazard mitigation plan offers several key benefits including eligibility for federal funding, comprehensive risk assessment, and tangible action steps to manage and mitigate risk. The MJHMP allows public safety officials and agency staff, elected officials, and members of the public to understand the threats from natural and human-caused hazards in our community and recommends specific actions to proactively decrease these threats before disasters occur. Earlier this month, the MJHMP Draft Plan was released for public feedback. Community participation is critical as this feedback ensures the plan reflects local concerns and needs across Orange County. This plan will be a blueprint for our community to learn about hazards and mitigate against potential risks, strengthening community resilience. Updating the MJHMP keeps MWDOC eligible for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grants under the Robert T. Stafford Act and the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000, which is crucial for funding future hazard mitigation efforts. Following FEMA approval, MWDOC and WEROC participating agencies will adopt the finalized plan in Spring 2025. The MJHMP will be updated periodically to address evolving risks, maintain FEMA eligibility, and strengthen critical community assets. For questions, email weroc@mwdoc.com or call (714) 593-5010.
