Lincoln County Public Safety Committee June 12 Meeting Summary
MERRILL – The Lincoln County Public Safety Committee held their monthly meeting on Wednesday June 12. One item of focus at the meeting was the Emergency Management Plan of Work. After reviewing the report, discussions took place regarding climate change, and the frequency, intensity and severity of storms. It was noted that there is no scientific evidence to prove this is the case. A follow up meeting was then scheduled for Monday June 17th to finalize the document.
There was discussion surrounding the 2024 Tornado Drill, which took place on April 9th. Strengths and Improvement opportunities were highlighted. Currently, tornado sirens are only present in the City of Merrill.
There was also discussion regarding the Mass Notification System, which is measured by FEMA to gauge the effectiveness of mass communication tools and systems available to alert the community in the event of an emergency. At present, 19,254 residents and visitors are not covered by tornado siren warnings, and locations such as town halls and campsites do not have emergency weather radios.
County Coroner Valerie Caylor reported 25 deaths during the month prior, with 7 death investigations taking place and 6 death certificates issued.
The next Lincoln County Public Safety Committee meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, July 10.
