Sec. 16-70. - Established; composition.

Section 44-146.19 of the Code of Virginia requires each political subdivision in the commonwealth to maintain an agency of emergency management. The fire department division of emergency management is hereby designated as the local agency of emergency management. There shall be a director of emergency management, who shall be the city manager, a coordinator of emergency management appointed by the city manager with the consent of the city council, and such other officers and employees, organized into branches, sections or other units, as may be provided by ordinance or by orders or directives of the city manager consistent therewith.

(Ord. No. 6595-09, § 2)

Sec. 16-71. - Responsibilities.

The division of emergency management, under the direction and control of the director of emergency management, shall be specifically responsible for:

(1)

Overall comprehensive coordination and management (including mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery) of declared or undeclared emergencies and disasters affecting the city, in order to protect public health and safety, and to preserve the lives, property and economy of the city and its citizens.

(2)

Preparation and maintenance of the city's emergency operations plan in coordination with the various city departments and agencies.

(3)

Designation, availability, preparation and maintenance of the city's primary, alternate and mobile emergency operations centers.

(4)

Coordination of search and rescue (SAR) operations as the city's designated SAR coordinator.

(5)

Participation as the city's emergency coordinator for the Peninsula Local Emergency Planning Committee.

(6)

Public education on emergencies and disasters, including family emergency preparedness.

(7)

Coordination with local organizations, businesses and industries to develop and maintain emergency and disaster contingency plans.

(8)

Emergency management training and exercises for the city.

(Ord. No. 6595-09, § 2)

Sec. 16-72. - Powers and duties of coordinator of emergency management.

The coordinator of emergency management shall manage the daily operations of emergency management, as assigned by the director of emergency management.

(Ord. No. 6595-09, § 2)

Sec. 16-73. - Oath of office.

The director of emergency management and all persons appointed to serve the division of emergency management shall take an oath of office as required by Section 44-146.25 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended.

(Ord. No. 6595-09, § 2)