Emergency Response

Williamson County looks at homeland security as part of our Office of Emergency Management duties. Most recently, the Office of Emergency Management has been involved in the regional planning for mass evacuations. In the event that there is a large evacuation of people from any area of Texas to Central Texas due to a natural or manmade disaster, Williamson County has joined … [Read more...] about What measures has your county taken to improve homeland security?

The events of the past year have provided grim reminders of the need for local control of county budgets and resources. Hurricane Rita in Southeast Texas and the wildfires in West Texas underscored the importance of a robust local response to emergencies. Adequate planning and skilled responders, supported by their counties, mitigated the loss of life and property from these … [Read more...] about The Need for Local Control for Disaster Response

Lavaca County Judge Ronald Leck stepped outside the confines of county and state government into the national realm, and he learned a valuable lesson. "We're part of a bigger picture," said Leck. "I feel like I'm a little bit better judge than I was a week ago." Leck and a dozen fellow members of the Commissioners Court Leadership Academy spent April 23-28 in Washington, … [Read more...] about The Big PictureTexas Officials Connect at Federal Level

Which houses in Precinct 3 back up to undeveloped woodlands? How many elderly residents live in Precinct 2? List the homes in Precinct 4 that represent a high fire risk. Print a countywide map designating which locations will require evacuation of disabled residents. When it comes to raging wildfires, the immediate answer to these questions could make a lifesaving difference. … [Read more...] about Fire Assessment Tool Available to Local Government

Wildfires burned some 960,000 acres during the week of March 12, killed 11 people and thousands of livestock, and destroyed at least 26 homes. County Progress asked county judges from several hard-hit areas to share their experience by addressing the following: What was the overall damage to your county? Please describe one or two experiences during the response that help … [Read more...] about Fire