TRUMBULL COUNTY, OH - The Trumbull County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) has announced a public comment period for its Hazard Mitigation Plan.

Developed by the county and local jurisdictions, the plan is meant to be a long-term strategy to identify “natural hazards that could impact the community,” according to a statement from the Trumbull County EMA. Hazards could include flooding, severe storms, tornadoes and other potential natural disasters.

The Hazard Mitigation Plan outlines the actions local leaders can take to reduce the effects of natural disasters in the area.

“Hazard mitigation planning helps communities become more resilient by identifying projects and strategies that protect lives, reduce property damage, strengthen infrastructure and improve overall preparedness,” Trumbull County EMA stated.

Residents, businesses and community partners are being encouraged to review the plan and provide feedback before the end of the comment period, which will run from March 16 through March 30.

The plan can be viewed online on the Trumbull County EMA website or in-person at the Trumbull County EMA Office at 640 North River Rd. NW Suite B, Warren, OH 44483.

Public comments on the plan can be submitted to Trumbull County EMA Director John E. Hickey at emhickey@co.trumbull.oh.us

An approved Hazard Mitigation Plan is required for the county to be eligible for certain federal grants and FEMA programs, which help fund disaster-reduction projects.

Cities and villages within the county must formally adopt the Hazard Mitigation Plan to also be eligible for the funding. Trumbull Commissioners will formally adopt the plan for all townships.