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Show shot at the police as he led the five mile chase. He fired at a truck being driven by Layton resident Frank Dawson, hitting the vehicle three times. Spikes were placed on the road, which deflated his tires, and, once off the road, he was immediately surrounded and detained. He was transported to a hospital with a head wound, and faced numerous additional charges upon his release. Mayor Keith Butler gave a "Fall Report" in the November issue of The Pioneer Post, providing insights to residents on community affairs. Crime statistics are down from previous years, but theft and burglary occur too often in our city. Mayor Butler urged residents to lock doors, secure valuables and watch for suspicious activities in their neighborhood. Emergency preparedness has been a growing concern by city officials. Bill Morris has expended much effort in developing a training manual for the community. The establishment of a Citizen Emergency Response Team (CERT) and the creation of a draft emergency plan were cited as important steps towards our community's safety. The last of a four-part series on emergency preparedness appeared in the January 2004 issue of The Pioneer Post. Specific information on water and food storage was given to help residents with personal preparedness. The Wasatch Front Regional Council prepared a disaster mitigation plan, that helps identify possible disasters in our area. The plan may help reduce property damage and disaster costs when events occur. These include those that can be prevented, such as flooding, and those which can be prepared for but not prevented, like earthquakes. Federal law requires such a plan in order for communities to receive federal funding in the event of a disaster. A resolution was passed by the City Council at their July 15, 2004, meeting to adopt the Wasatch Front Regional Council Natural Hazard Pre-disaster Mitigation Plan. Utah's six northern counties are agreeing to help one another in the event of a major disaster, and our city has been asked to participate by an interlocal agreement. The agreement covers all kinds of situations, such as natural disaster, chemical accidents, terrorism, and kidnapping. Mr. Morris said the city has some shovels, gloves and first aid supplies for smaller disasters, as well as a Citizen's Emergency Response Team. In a large disaster the interlocal agreement would come into play, and the city may receive more than it contributes. Weber County has a trailer with pumps, sand bags, back hoes, and other equipment. The CERT shed at the county fair grounds could also be accessed. Our city would be required to respond outside of the county if they were asked. Good samaritan laws may reduce liability in case of city participation. Resolution 2004-H concerning Emergency Mutual Aid Interlocal Agreement was passed at the August 19, 2004, City Council meeting. The city's recently completed Emergency Preparedness Manual was distributed to council members at the August meeting. It was completed by city staff through a federal grant. Mr. Morris reviewed the manual with the council and talked about types of disasters which could befall the community. Copies of the manuals will be distributed to all residents. Further emergency training is planned. An Emergency/Disaster Workshop for residents was held on September 23, 2004, at the City Office. Bill Morris and Rick Taylor conducted the meeting. Those in attendance were warned that too many people are unprepared for a disaster. It is a mistake to assume that the government does or should do all family preparedness planning. The city's Emergency Planning Manual was distributed to those at the workshop. The city can assist with emergency planning through training meetings and providing information. In case of a disaster, the city will respond to meet the challenges through its Emergency. Operation Center (EOC). The EOC is made up of local leaders and volunteers. Our community is divided into three areas, with an Area Coordinator who assists with emergency management. Each of these areas is divided into neighborhoods, with a Neighborhood Coordinator. Services of these people, with the assistance of Red Cross and others, are responsible for: (1) damage assessment, (2) communication, (3) mass care, (4) shelter operation, and (5) security. |