Township approves updated Emergency Operations Plan required by state law

Williams Township's board approved Resolution 2026-12 to adopt an updated Emergency Operations Plan, as required under the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Services Code.

Staff (S2) explained that section 7503 of the state code mandates the township prepare and maintain an emergency operations plan to reduce harm from major emergencies or disasters and that the plan must be updated every two years. S2 asked the board to authorize acceptance of the plan so it could be signed and submitted to county authorities. S2 also stated the plan and contact lists are confidential and not intended for public posting on the township website.

Chair (S3) moved to approve the resolution and the motion was seconded; the board approved the resolution by voice vote.

Why it matters: The plan establishes the township's framework for emergency response and fulfills a state statutory requirement; keeping contact lists confidential is standard practice to protect response protocols.

Quote: "Section 7503 of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Services Code mandates that Williams Township prepare, maintain, and keep current an emergency operations plan," S2 said.

What happens next: Staff will finalize signatures and submit the adopted plan to the appropriate county emergency management authorities.