Resilient Counties Initiative
Hurricanes, wildfires, economic collapse and other disasters can be natural or man-made, acute or long-term, foreseeable or unpredictable. Preparation for and recovery from such events requires both long-term planning and immediate action.
NACo works to strengthen county resiliency by building leadership capacity to identify and manage risk, and allow counties to become more flexible and responsive. Through the use of sustainable practices and infrastructure, counties will be better prepared to address these issues in a manner that can minimize the impact on local residents and businesses, while helping counties save money.
Through the initiative, NACo:
- Develops strategies to foster economic growth and competitiveness;
- Educates counties on techniques for implementing resiliency and sustainability strategies;
- Provides tools for counties to educate their communities on resiliency initiatives;
- Identifies ways to leverage changing conditions and take advantage of new technologies and innovation; and
- Facilitates an open exchange with the private sector.
Resource
Emergency Management in County Government: A National Survey
Diversion project spells relief from Fargo-area flooding
After several top-10 worst floods in just a few years, Cass County, N.D. citizens voted to fund diversion plans with a sales tax.
Pacific Northwest counties prepare for ‘The Big One’
Counties in Oregon and Washington are preparing for the devastating earthquake and tsunami that scientists say is coming in the next 50 years.
As Washington zeroes in on disasters, counties must stay at the table
"From FEMA to Congress, there’s a growing appetite for reform. That’s good news. But let’s be clear: Reform without local input isn’t reform, it’s a missed opportunity."
Volunteer program trains Florida county staff to help during hurricanes, other emergencies
Orange County, Fla. trains, certifies and deploys non-essential county staff to respond to emergencies.
New disaster recovery grants now open to support county economic development
The U.S. Economic Development Administration has launched the Fiscal Year 2025 Disaster Supplemental Grant Program, making $1.45 billion available to help communities recover from natural disasters and build long-term economic resilience. Counties affected by major disaster declarations in 2023 or 2024 are eligible to apply for funding to rebuild infrastructure, strengthen local economies and prepare for future disruptions. This program goes beyond immediate recovery, aiming to transform local economies and foster sustainable, long-term economic growth.
Faster, Smarter Disaster Relief: How LA County Used AI & Geospatial Mapping to Deliver $20M in Aid
Key Takeaways:
- Strategies for incorporating geospatial technology in disaster planning and response.
- Techniques for using identity verification tools to balance security and accessibility.
- Best practices for building public-private partnerships in times of crisis.
Stay Up-To-Date on the Resilient Counties Initiative
Program Contact
Danny Tomares
Sponsors
