Item:
Title
Approval of Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 27BCC031 OES - Emergency Management to recognize FY26 NC Tier II Grant funding in the amount of $8,300 to Support the Local Emergency Planning Committee
Body
Date of BOCC Meeting: November 9, 2026
Request for Board Action:
Agenda Text
The Board is requested to approve Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 27BCC031 recognizing $8,300 of General Fund balance to increase expenditure authority to the City/County Emergency Management Division through the OES department. Proceeds of these grant funds will be used to strengthen Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) participation and hazardous materials planning by improving hybrid meeting capabilities and enhancing access to clear, concise Tier II planning resources for industry partners and stakeholders.
Funding will also support a hybrid meeting capability to allow both in-person and virtual participation in LEPC meetings. This will ensure industry representatives, emergency responders, and partner agencies can actively engage in hazardous materials planning discussions regardless of location. Improved accessibility will support broader participation, more consistent attendance, and more effective coordination related to Tier II facilities and fixed-facility planning.
In addition, the project will develop and distribute Tier II Quick Reference Guides in a durable, Field Operations Guide-style format to provide industry partners with practical guidance on Tier II reporting requirements, legal responsibilities, and LEPC coordination expectations. These reference materials will support planning and training activities, improve the accuracy and consistency of Tier II information used by the LEPC, and strengthen collaboration between facilities and planning partners.
Based on the Durham County LEPC’s 2026 objectives, priorities, and identified gaps, this project will enhance participation and strengthen hazardous materials planning by expanding hybrid meeting capabilities and developing Tier II Quick Reference Guides for industry partners.
Providing a virtual attendance option will increase accessibility, improve consistent participation from industry and partner agencies, and support more effective coordination related to fixed-facility planning. The Tier II field guides will increase awareness and compliance with chemical reporting requirements and serve as a practical tool for use during facility reviews, site safety plan discussions, and HazMat safety coordination activities.
The Memorandum of Agreement was signed on September 10, 2026.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: This item aligns with Durham County’s Strategic Goal: Safe and Resilient Community.
Resource Persons: Elizabeth Schroeder, Office of Emergency Services - Chief of Emergency Management; Jonathan Webster, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, Hazardous Materials Program; Mark Lockhart, Office of Emergency Services - Director.
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the Board approve Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 27BCC031 for the FY26 NC Tier II Grant in the amount of $8,300.
Signature
County Manager: ____________________________