Community groups, extension and emergency management to host disaster-preparedness workshops and water-affordability screening

A guest speaker representing Martin County Concerned Citizens told the board about two local disaster-preparedness workshops (March 25 at the Martin County Cooperative Extension office and a follow-up at the Warfield Community Center) and invited board members and staff to attend.

The speaker said the sessions, coordinated with local emergency management and extension personnel, will include hands-on activities and an after-action review of flood response in 2025. He also invited the board and public to a national film screening, "Behind the Bills: Stories of the U.S. Water Affordability Crisis," on April 9 (digital/Zoom) and offered to share registration information.

Board members discussed ways to improve the meeting sign-up process so residents can indicate topics they wish to address in advance to make public comment more efficient. The guest reiterated the value of community engagement on preparedness and affordability issues and encouraged board participation.