COUNTY OF SAN MATEO

Inter-Departmental Correspondence

County Manager’s Office

DATE:

April 17, 2006

BOARD MEETING DATE:

May 2, 2006

SPECIAL NOTICE/HEARING:

None

VOTE REQUIRED:

Majority

TO:

Honorable Board of Supervisors

FROM:

John L. Maltbie, County Manager

SUBJECT:

Presidential Disaster Declaration request by San Mateo County to the Governor due to the 2006 Winter storms.

RECOMMENDATION:

Authorize the Office of Emergency Services Coordinator to request the Governor of California to call for a Presidential Declaration for the local state of emergency caused by the March 2006 winter storms.

VISION ALIGNMENT:

Commitment: Ensure basic health and safety for all

Goal(s): Maintain and enhance the public safety of all residents and visitors

BACKGROUND:

On March 27^th, 2006, the County was hit by another series of storms. The County declared a state of emergency, requested and received the Governor’s declaration of a state of local emergency. Additional financial assistance would be made available to both public and private sectors if the County were afforded a Presidential declaration, such as access to the federal individual assistance program. Several homes the County have been “tagged” by the County building inspector because of threats to the homes from unstable and ongoing mudslides and possible falling trees and debris. The Red Cross has exhausted what assistance it can provide the families. San Mateo County Human Services Agency immediately made available emergency housing assistance to several affected families.

DISCUSSION:

A review of the current situation and circumstances indicates that there is a need for a Presidential declaration to ensure access to all emergency funds for local agencies, businesses and individuals who have suffered significant loss during the ongoing winter storms.

FISCAL IMPACT:

The request to the Governor to request a Presidential Declaration has no impact on the County General Fund. However, if successful, it could provide additional emergency relief.