Town of Southbury Seeks Public Input for Disaster Plan

Submitted by the Town of Southbury

Tropical Storm Irene, October snowstorm Alfred, and Superstorm Sandy are recent events that caused severe damage and resulted in Federal disaster declarations.  Flooding, heavy snow, wind, and downed power lines cause damage to property, disrupt our daily routines, close our schools and businesses, and jeopardize the health and safety of the citizens of Southbury.  In the year 2011 alone, several floods occurred along the Pomperaug River.

What can be done to minimize our vulnerabilities to natural hazards?  The Town of Southbury is updating its hazard mitigation plan to identify activities that can be undertaken before natural hazards occur in order to minimize property damage, risk of life, and the costs that are shared by all.  The plan will discuss the occurrence and consequences of floods, winter storms, tornadoes, hurricanes and tropical storms, wildfires, earthquakes, and dam failure.  The plan will outline the steps that Southbury can take to mitigate for future natural hazards.

In order to gain input to the hazard mitigation planning process, the Town will be hosting an informational meeting on Thursday, September 26 at 7PM in Room 205 of the Southbury Town Hall.  For residents and business owners who are unable to attend the meeting, comments can be sent to comments@cogcnv.org with the phrase “hazard mitigation plan” in the subject line.