Public input meeting set for May 3 in Williamsport 

Reps. Merle Phillips (R-Northumberland/Snyder) and Russ Fairchild (R-Snyder/Union) are encouraging residents to offer their input on the state’s All-Hazards Mitigation plan Monday, May 3, in Williamsport. 

According to the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA), which is coordinating meetings statewide, the All-Hazards Mitigation Plan is one of the vital tools used in emergency management to lessen the impact of disasters in Pennsylvania. 

“Being prepared is one of the most important tools in responding to disasters, whether they are natural or man-made, and plans must be kept up to date,” said Fairchild, Republican chairman of the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee.  

Two sessions will be held in the Klump Auditorium of the Pennsylvania College of Technology, located at One College Ave. The first is set for 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and the second is planned for 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 

The updated plan will be the blueprint for further reducing property damage and saving lives from the effects of future natural and human-made disasters. The plan must be updated again to ensure local governments continue to qualify for state and federal funding related to All-Hazards preparedness.  The plan was last updated in 2007. 

“This meeting will allow the public to offer their thoughts and ideas on the draft plan,” said Phillips. “Local officials, residents, educators and first responders are encouraged to attend.” 

Anyone seeking more information on how to become involved in the update process should contact Tom Hughes, state hazard mitigation officer, at (717) 651-2726 or by e-mail at thughes@state.pa.us. 

Rep. Merle Phillips
108th District
(570) 286-5885
Rep. Russ Fairchild
85th District
(570) 524-2788
Contact:  Jennifer Algoe Keaton
Jkeaton@pahousegop.com
(717) 705-2094
Caucus site:  PAHouseGOP.com