Washtenaw County Directs Efforts Toward Disaster Risk Reduction

Local governments in Washtenaw County are shifting their approach from reacting to disasters to actively reducing the risks those events create. Officials are utilizing hazard mitigation plans, which serve as long-term blueprints for identifying vulnerabilities and making preventative investments before emergencies occur. Beth Gibbons, director of the Washtenaw County Resiliency Office, discussed this proactive strategy.

The county's focus on hazard mitigation plans indicates a strategic shift toward long-term risk management. This approach involves identifying vulnerabilities related to flooding, extreme storms, and aging infrastructure, which requires significant public investment in preventative measures.