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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2001 10 30 Memo Re: State Emergency Response Commission (SERC) Council of Local Governments in Seminole County . LAKE MARY . WINTER SPRINGS MEMO . LONGWOOD . CASSELBERRY ALTAMONTE · SPRINGS SEMINOLE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD October 30, 2001 TO: All Elected Officials The Council of Local Governments in Seminole County (CALNO) will be hosting representatives of the State Emergency Response Commission (SERC) from Tallahassee and of the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) at Winter Springs City Hall on Wednesday, November 7,2001, at 7:00 PM. The purpose of the meeting is to inform local leaders and private citizens about the functions of these entities and to answer any questions that they may have. So many people have said that they just don't know what they can do about the current national crisis. Here is something constructive and positive that you can do to help protect your family and your community. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld said, at a Pentagon briefing, "Civilian agencies will play just as critical a role in the war on terrorism as the Defense Department," In 1986 Congress enacted the Emergency Planning and Community Right- To-Know Act (EPCRA). The Act has had a far-reaching influence on issues relating to hazardous materials. EPCRA contains five sections, which cover issues associated with the manufacture, use, exposure, transportation, and public education of hazardous materials. It is the mission of the (LEPC) and (SERC) to implement EPCRA in the State of Florida and mitigate the effects of a release or spill of hazardous materials. The (SERC) is responsible for implementing federal EPCRA provisions in Florida and serving as a technical advisor and information clearinghouse for state and federal hazardous materials programs. LEPCs consist of approximately 30 volunteer members representing safety and public health agencies as well as other community organizations and groups, including private citizens. Because LEPC members represent the community, they need to be familiar with factors that affect public safety, the environment, and the economy of the community. The LEPCs develop emergency plans and procedures for immediate response to chemical accidents. In addition to its formal responsibilities, the LEPC serves as a focal point in the community for information and discussions about hazardous substances, emergency planning, and health and environmental risks. The information provided to you at this meeting will enable you to better serve and inform your constituents. Please try to join us if you can. Respectfull y, ~~x1~~ C~ndY-Ge~~ Chairperson ============================ COUNCIL MEMBERS Steve Wolfram Linda C. Hart Cindy Gennell, Chairperson Gary Brender Robert Dallari Art Woodruff Grant Maloy Government Relations Liaison Paul Hull. Dan Anderson Diane Bauer