R2024-307 Resolution Authorizing the Adoption of the Macon County Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan

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Macon County Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan 12024 2.5 Public Involvement and Participation Broad public participation in the planning process helps ensure that diverse points of view about the planning area's needs are considered and addressed. The public must have opportunities to comment on disaster mitigation Plans during the drafting stages and prior to Plan approval (44 CFR, Section 201.6(b)(1)). As such, a number of public outreach activities were organized to ensure public participation and input were obtained. The following sections explain, in greater detail, the key activities and supporting documentation. More information about each of these activities is also provided in Appendix B: Public Involvement Activities and Documentation. 2.5.1 Community Preparedness and Mitigation Survey Surveys were distributed through a variety of methods beginning on April 5th, 2023, including e- mail blasts and social media platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter. A Spanish version both online and a hard copy was available and distributed beginning on May 2nd, 2023. The survey was available to the community until May 30th, 2023. Community organizations were critical in connecting county and city residents with the survey, and the Macon County EMA utilized their broad-based distribution lists of community stakeholders and partners to disseminate the survey to residents and leaders of underserved communities and organizations. In total, 230 residents participated in the 30-question survey. Results helped to validate the hazards included in the plan, the hazard ranking process, and areas where the county and municipalities could further improve outreach and education efforts. 2.5.2 Public Forum & Outreach The public was invited to attend a public forum held at the Macon County Board Building on June 5th, 2023. There were two meetings held, the first meeting was advertised for the Spanish- speaking population of Macon County with an interpreter available. The second meeting was a general public meeting. The public meeting was advertised locally prior to the meeting, including social media platforms, community newsletters, websites, and special outreach by the United Way to the Spanish-speaking population. The purpose of the meeting was to provide an overview of the project, share and validate the hazard risk findings, receive public input on important mitigation initiatives, and to invite the public to review the draft of the Plan. Attendees were given access to important information regarding the Plan, and an opportunity to provide input regarding the Plan and planning process. 2.5.3 Macon County Website A dedicated web page was utilized to update stakeholders and the general public regarding the Plan update. Social media and outreach activities directed participants to this site (https://maconcounty.illinois.gov/departments/ema/). Chapter 2: Plan Process 17