Contra Costa County supervisors want to fix its problem-plagued emergency warning system. But the man who runs it may not be on board.

The Grand Jury’s report indicated a troubling trend, revealing that only 30% of residents in Contra Costa County are enrolled in the Community Warning System, a critical emergency notification service. This alarming statistic underlines the urgent need for enhanced public outreach and engagement strategies to ensure that more residents are informed and protected during emergencies. Lack of participation compromises the system’s effectiveness, highlighting a significant gap in safety preparedness in a region prone to various natural and industrial hazards.

County supervisors acknowledged the shortcomings highlighted in the June report but faced criticism for not addressing the core issue: a single elected official possesses ultimate authority over the CWS operations. This hierarchical approach raises concerns about accountability and responsiveness in the face of emergencies, potentially stalling efforts to implement necessary changes and improvements. The prevailing governance structure could hinder timely decision-making and the agility required in urgent situations, emphasizing the need for a reevaluation of oversight mechanisms.

Read at The Mercury News