Emergency operations centre funding to improve capacity in Alberni-Clayoquot

May 24, 2023, Alberni-Clayoquot, B.C. – The Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District (ACRD) and the City of Port Alberni are pleased to announce they have received grant funding to support efforts to improve regional emergency operations centre (EOC) capacity.

The ACRD Emergency Program and EOC provides service for Bamfield, Beaufort, Long Beach, Sproat Lake, Beaver Creek, Cherry Creek, and the City of Port Alberni. The 2023 grant from the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) is for $60,000 through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund.

“When an emergency affects our communities, it is essential that we are ready to react and offer the services residents need at what might be a frightening time for them. This often requires coordination across the region,” explains Debbie Haggard, vice-chair of the ACRD Board of Directors. “We are thankful this funding provides us with an opportunity to purchase supplies and build capacity so that we are better equipped to open an Emergency Operations Centre.”

With the funding, the ACRD and the City of Port Alberni will be able to focus on building capacity within the region and ensuring they are prepared for an emergency that requires an EOC. The funds will be used for:

• Training for staff and emergency agencies;
• Emergency operation centre equipment and office supplies;
• Generators; and
• Shipping container for storage of emergency equipment.

Emergencies are rarely restricted to just one community and often cross jurisdictional boundaries. This funding will strengthen the working relationships with partnering agencies, local governments, and stakeholders in an emergency operations centre exercise to share knowledge and develop best practices.

“We know that strengthening pre-existing relationships with other organizations and government agencies through training and exercises will improve our ability to respond when the time comes,” says Port Alberni Mayor Sharie Minions. “Thanks to this funding from UBCM, we know we will be ready to respond when needed and will be able to offer residents of the region what they need.”