The Incident Management Action Team has developed a plan for increasing the membership of the existing two Alameda County and one Contra Costa County Incident Command Teams (ICT) so that membership is multi-disciplinary. The ICT leaders will provide a presentation to the various stakeholder groups to gain support and assignment of members. The targeted groups are the Law Enforcement Associations, Public Health Agencies, Public Utilities Groups, and Public Works Organizations. To a lesser degree, the Fire Chiefs Associations will be solicited because IC Teams are primarily staffed by Fire Department Personnel and the concept is accepted and practiced.

Concurrently, a team membership drive will take place. As the ICT is expanded, necessary mutual aid protocols will be developed and put in place.

To have effective IC Teams, training must be a continually process. ICT members are required to attend standardized Incident Command Team courses, position specific courses, and periodic refresher training on the tasks, subjects and skills determined necessary for effective incident command environments. A class schedule has been developed to provide the necessary training to the new and current members. Prior to the first class, the course material will be submitted to the Office for Domestic Preparedness for approval, as required for UASI reimbursement.

In addition to training, the Action Team developed an equipment list that will enhance the ability of the ICT’s to respond to call-outs. The equipment includes materials for an ICT Member Kit- manuals, office supplies, forms, radio, pager, and personal protective equipment. In addition to the kits, the standard technology for members to use on a call-out, including laptop computers, satellite phones, and digital cameras are required.

The UASI core city of Oakland and core county of Alameda were recently contacted to participate in a statewide exercise. The funds remaining after the training and equipment costs will be used to cover the personnel costs of ICT participation in this exercise.

RECOMMENDATION:

The Incident Management Action Team recommends the UASI grant funds be used for the ICT training costs, for equipment and technology used by the Incident Command Teams, and for the personnel costs to administer the training courses and participate in an exercise to test the enhanced teams.

SPENDING PLAN:

APPROVED BY THE EXECUTIVE BOARD ON FEBRUARY 9, 2005.

For additional information, please contact the Homeland Security Program Coordinator Susan F. Newton at (510) 238-2985 or snewton@oaklandnet.com.