Input Needed for SCCOG Hazard Mitigation Plan Update

Superstorm Sandy of August 2012, Winter Storm Nemo of February 2013, and the winter storms of January-February 2015, are recent events that caused severe damage and resulted in Federal disaster declarations for Connecticut. Natural disasters like flooding, heavy snow, wind, wildland fires cause damage to property, disrupt our daily routines, close our schools and businesses, and jeopardize the health and safety of citizens.

What can be done to minimize our vulnerabilities to natural hazards? The Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments (SCCOG) is updating its regional hazard mitigation plan to make sure it continues to be relevant and useful. This plan discusses the occurrence and consequences of floods, winter storms, tornadoes, hurricanes and tropical storms, wildfires, earthquakes, and dam failure. The plan identifies activities that communities can perform before natural hazards occur in order to minimize property damage, risk of life, and the costs that are shared by all. This update will identify significant changes in risks, vulnerabilities, capabilities, and mitigation actions that have developed since adoption of the previous plan in 2012.

The Council of Governments is offering two opportunities for the public to attend an informational meeting where regional residents can learn about the plan, ask questions, and provide input:

• Monday, November 28 at 7 PM in the Groton Town Library (52 Newtown Road)
• Thursday, December 1 at 7 PM in the SCCOG office in Norwich (5 Connecticut Avenue)

Additionally, those interested are encouraged to share their thoughts through an online survey available at www.surveymonkey.com/r/SCCOGHazard.

Comments or questions can also be emailed to the SCCOG office at office@seccog.org.

For more information, please contact the SCCOG office at (860) 889-2324.