chapter 3: planning area profile and capability …...marion county multi-jurisdictional...

Marion County Multi-Jurisdictional Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan of 2012-2016

Page 3.1

Chapter 3: Planning Area Profile and Capability Assessment This chapter describes the planning area’s main characteristics and provides a description of each participating jurisdiction and their existing mitigation capabilities. 3.1: The Planning Area Profile This section details the main characteristics of the planning area, Marion County. Figure 3.1 shows the county’s location within the State of Iowa. 3.1.1: Location Marion County is located in south central Iowa and is in the third tier of counties in the state. Knoxville, the county seat, is located in the center of the county, about 40 miles south and east of Des Moines. The county is bordered by Warren County to the west, Mahaska County to the east, Lucas and Monroe Counties to the south, and Jasper County to the north. The dimensions of the county are approximately 24X24 miles, with a total area of 576 sq. miles. Figure 3.1: State of Iowa with County Boundaries

Source: World Sites Atlas, www.worldsites.org A base map of Marion County is included on the following page. There are 9 incorporated cities or towns in the county and approximately 500 square miles of unincorporated rural area. This county is divided into 12 township governments.

http://www.worldsites.org/


Page 3.2

Figure 3.2: Marion County Base Map with Political Boundaries


.3

3.1.2: Form of Government Marion County utilizes a direct representative form of government, and elects a board of three (3) Supervisors from various parts of the county. This Board of Supervisors governs county-level functions and levies taxes on property throughout the county. Among those functions is the Marion County Emergency Management Commission (EMC). The EMC is comprised of representatives of local government appointees and representatives, as per Iowa Code Chapter 29C, and is responsible for the hiring of an Emergency Management Coordinator. Nine municipal governments are currently in place to levy taxes within their boundaries and manage local functions. Each of these communities has an active City Council and Mayor, elected by local residents. All communities utilize a multiple-person council. Schools have elected Boards of Education. Eleven township governments also exist, but these entities are very limited in taxing authority and responsibilities. Principally, however, these townships are responsible for precinct election issues, the management of rural cemeteries, and the support of fire protection districts. Two townships are very active and were involved directly in the plan (Clay and Indiana). Generally the other townships have little direct role in hazard mitigation in Marion County. Table 3.1: Jurisdictional Leadership Applicable to Hazard Mitigation (Participating Jurisdictions only) Jurisdiction Name Position (type) Meeting and

Notes Address Contact Information

Marion County Sam Nichols, Jim Kingery, Craig Agan

Supervisors (elected)

Second and fourth Monday

214 East Main, Knoxville

641.828.2231, [email protected]

Drew Sanders Assessor (appointed)



Jake Grandia Auditor (elected) 214 East Main, Knoxville


Steve Edwards Conservation director (appointed)



Carla Eysink Marion Co. Development Commission (appointed)



John McCoy E911 Dept. (appointed)



Jeff Anderson Emergency Management Coordinator (appointed)



Roger Schletzbaum

Engineer (appointed)

402 Willetts Dr., Knoxville

641.828,2225, [email protected]

Kim Dorn Environmental Health -Sanitarian (appointed)

2003 North Lincoln, Knoxville


William Buttrey GIS/Web Coord. (appointed)


641.828.2153 [email protected]

Kim Dorn Public Health (appointed)

2003 North Lincoln, Knoxville


Ron Goemaat Sheriff (elected) 211 N. Godrey, Knoxville

641.828.2200, 2247, [email protected]

Melissa Poffenbarger

Zoning (appointed)


641.828.2243 [email protected]

City of Bussey Larry Pinegar Mayor (elected) 313 5th St., Bussey

City of Harvey Dennis Seibert Mayor (elected) 402 West St., Harvey

City of Knoxville

Donald Zoutte, Sr.

Mayor (elected) 1st and 3rd Monday, 5 council members

305 S. 3rd St., Knoxville

641.828.0550X222, City Manager, email from website: www.discoverknoxville.com

City of Melcher- Amos Spoon Mayor (elected) 2nd Monday, 5 315 D Main, 641.947.6501,

mailto:[email protected]













http://www.discoverknoxville.com/


Page 3.4

Dallas council members Melcher-Dallas

[email protected]

City of Pella Darrell Dobernecker (planning phase)

Mayor (elected) 1st and 3rd Tuesday, 6 council members

825 Broadway, Pella

641.628.4173, Mike Nardini, city administrator, [email protected]

City of Pleasantville

Jason Anthony Mayor (elected) 3rd Monday, 5 council members

108 W. Jackson, Pleasantville

641.848.3316, Joe Mrstik, Administrator and Police Chief, [email protected],

City of Swan Sarah Heywood City Clerk (appointed)

5 council members

104 Church St., Swan

641.289.6817

Central College Mark Putnam President (appointed)

46 members of board of trustees

812 University, Pella

877.462.3687,641.628.5269 [email protected]

Knoxville Schools

Dr. Randy Flack Superintendent (appointed)

2nd and 4th Monday, 5 elected school board members

309 W. Main, Knoxville


Melcher-Dallas Schools

Steve Mitchell Superintendent (appointed)

3rd Monday, 5 board members

210 S. Main, Melcher


Pella Schools Greg Ebeling Superintendent (appointed)

Meets monthly, 5 board members

210 E. University, Pella


Pleasantville Schools

Bob Miller Superintendent (appointed)

2nd Monday, 5 board members

415 Jones St., Pleasantville


Twin Cedars Schools

Brian VanderSluis

Superintendent (appointed)

Meets monthly, 5 board members

2204 Hwy G71, Bussey


Sources: www.co.marion.ia.us/offices, www.discoverknoxville.com, www.cityofpella.com, www.cityofmelcherdallas.com, www.melcher-dallas.k12.ia.us, www.pleasantville.k12.ia.us, www.knoxville.k12.ia.us, www.pella.k12.ia.us, www.twincedars.k12.ia.us, www.central.edu, http://discoverpleasantville.com/ 3.1.3: NFIP Participation Currently, the following jurisdictions have been mapped, have identified flood hazard areas, and are participating in the NFIP: City of Bussey, City of Harvey, City of Knoxville, Marion County, City of Marysville, and City of Pella. The following jurisdictions are mapped and have flood hazard areas but are not participating in the NFIP (as of 2010): City of Hamilton, City of Melcher Dallas, City of Pleasantville, and City of Swan. The State of Iowa HSEMD and IDNR have more details about the status of these communities over time. Additionally, there are no repetitive lost properties located in Marion County. Chapter 5 details the insurance and claims information. 3.1.4: Brief History of Development The area that became Marion County was ceded the United States Government in 1842, and the organization of the county began during that decade. Marion County, Iowa, was formally organized in 1845, and Knoxville was chosen as the county seat. Over time, cities and towns developed throughout the county, mostly along railroad routes. There remains numerous unincorporated towns, especially in the former mining areas of the southern part of the county. As rail grew in importance, small towns grew. After the decline of passenger rail and the raise of highway systems, more of the population moved to larger towns in the county and to metro areas such as Des Moines. The county’s population grew rapidly through 1880 and then slowly with some ebbs and flows through 1980 before growing again through 2010, when the largest recorded population ever was recorded. It is growing once again now as the agricultural economy has improved and the influence of the growing Des Moines metro area reaches the northwest half of the county. The development of four-lane Highways 5 and 163 have accelerated this growth. Today, several large industries exist in Marion County, but the local economy continues to be driven also by small businesses and agriculture. More details of the county and its jurisdictions can be obtained at www.co.marion.ia.us/history.htm.













http://www.co.marion.ia.us/offices


http://www.cityofpella.com/

http://www.cityofmelcherdallas.com/

http://www.melcher-dallas.k12.ia.us/

http://www.pleasantville.k12.ia.us/

http://www.knoxville.k12.ia.us/

http://www.pella.k12.ia.us/

http://www.twincedars.k12.ia.us/

http://www.central.edu/

http://discoverpleasantville.com/

http://www.co.marion.ia.us/history.htm


Page 3.5

3.1.5: Geography and Geology Geology: Marion County is wholly located in the landform region known as the Southern Iowa Drift Plain. Glacial deposits left by ice sheets that extended south into Missouri over millennia dominate this region. The deposits were carved by deepening episodes of stream erosion into steeply rolling, well-drained terrain. Numerous rills, creeks, and rivers branch out across the landscape shaping the old glacial deposits into steeply rolling hills and valleys. Southern parts of the county are among the best historical coal mining areas in Iowa. Topography: Marion County has few unique, fragile or hazardous landforms or landform regions. The county does not have significant outcroppings, limestone bluffs, or erosion areas, except those associated with Lake Red Rock’s shoreline and mining areas. The county is fairly to very hilly, with notable change in elevation from the southwest part of the county to the Des Moines River in the central and eastern part of the county. The southwest part of the county has the highest elevation of approximately 1,000 feet. The Des Moines River along the eastern border of the county is at approximately 700 feet. Soils: The table below documents more information regarding eight general soil associations that characterize Marion County. Table 3.2: Soil Associations in Marion County Soil Association % of County Description Taintor-Mahaska Association 5% Nearly level, somewhat poorly drained and poorly drained soils that formed

in loess on uplands Sharpsburg-Macksburg-Winterset Association

4% Nearly level and gently sloping, moderately well drained to poorly drained soils that formed in loess on uplands

Arispe-Grundy-Haig Association

6% Nearly level to moderately sloping, moderately well drained to poorly drained soils that formed in loess on uplands

Fayette-Downs Association 5% Gently sloping to steep, well drained soils that formed in loess on uplands Ladoga-Clinton-Otley Association

16% Gently sloping to strongly sloping, moderately well drained soils that formed in loess on uplands

Ladoga-Sharpsburg-Clinton Association

29% Gently sloping to strongly sloping, moderately well drained soils that formed in loess on uplands

Gosport-Pershing-Gara Association

27% Gently sloping to steep, well drained to somewhat poorly drained soils that formed in residuum form shale, glacial till, and loess on uplands

Nodaway-Zook-Ackmore Association

8% Nearly level and gently sloping, poorly drained to moderately well drained soils that formed in alluvium on flood plains of major streams

Source: USDA Soil Survey of Marion County, 1980 Surface Water Systems: Marion County is well drained by numerous streams and rivers that flow through the county, and several significant waterways exist. Principally, the Des Moines River crosses the northeast half of the county before flowing into Mahaska County. The Skunk River flows through the very northeast corner of the county, and tributaries of the Des Moines River, such as White Breast Creek flow from the south and southwest part of the county to the northeast. Three 8-digit level watersheds have been identified in Marion County (South Skunk, Lake Red Rock, and Lower Des Moines). The following map shows the major waterways and watershed in Marion County.


Page 3.6

Figure 3.3: Major Waterways and Watersheds Located in Marion County Wetlands: Wetlands, mostly small, exist on numerous private and public lands in the county. The US Army Corps of Engineers evaluates proposed construction activities in wetlands through the Section 404 permitting process when issues arise. There are no known wetland-related hazard mitigation issues in the county. 3.1.6: Climatology Marion County, like the entire state of Iowa, is within the humid continental zone. The mean temperature of the county in the summer months is 73˚ F and in the 23.7˚ F in the winter, slightly warmer on average than the state as a whole. Seasons fluctuate from being very wet to very dry, and temperatures can fluctuate greatly in spring and autumn months. Average annual precipitation is approximately 36.4 inches and the frost-free season well over 150 days on average.


Page 3.7

Table 3.3: Climate of Marion County Average Record Month High (˚) Low (˚) Daily Temp (˚) Precip. High Low Jan 31 10 20 0.93 68 -32 Feb 37 16 26 1.07 76 -34 March 49 26 39 2.30 89 -24 April 61 38 50 3.21 94 5 May 72 50 61 4.76 97 27 Jun 82 60 71 4.57 102 38 Jul 86 65 75 5.15 107 40 Aug 84 62 73 4.03 106 38 Sep 76 53 65 3.87 102 26 Oct 65 40 53 3.01 94 11 Nov 48 27 35 2.32 81 -11 Dec 34 16 25 1.13 69 -26 Source: The Weather Channel, www.weather.com

3.1.7: Land Use Patterns The total area of the county is approximately 576 square miles or 368,640 acres. A vast majority of this area is devoted to agricultural uses, including row crop production, grazing and livestock production, and non-row crop farming. Data from the 2007 Census of Agriculture indicates that 246,191 acres or 75% of total land was in farms, 183,327 of which was cropland. According to the NRCS online data of soils (http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov), approximately 167 acres are used for sand and gravel pits (less than 1%), 6,894.4 acres of strip mine spoils with 25%+ slopes (1.9%), 389.1 acres of limestone quarries (0.1%), 1,500 acres of cut and fill land (0.4%), 20,130 acres of water and built wetlands (5.5%), and 37.6 acres of sewer and animal waste lagoons (less than 0.1%). The soil survey shows 365,146.2 acres of surface area in the county. 3.1.8: Transportation Highway Access: The principal highways in the county are listed in the table below, in addition to the approximate mileage of farm-to-market and secondary roads in Marion County. Marion County contains four key State highways. The average daily traffic is very high on four-lane highways, and traffic volumes continue to increase.

Table 3.4: Mileage of Roadways in Marion County, by Type Roadway Mileage (approx.) Communities Served Ranges of annual daily traffic State Highway 163 15 miles Pella 7700-9700 vpd State Highway 14 28 miles Knoxville 1890-3350 vpd State Highway 92 16 miles Knoxville 1340-2740 vpd State Highway 5 32 miles Pleasantville, Hamilton 3120-7600 vpd State Highway 5/92 14 miles Knoxville 3850-6300 vpd Farm-to-Market 350 miles All 120-4360 vpd Secondary Roads (area service) 600 miles All 5-740 vpd Source: Iowa Department of Transportation

Streets & Roads: The seven participating cities in Marion County have roads to all developed areas. Most of the roads in the incorporated communities are seal coated or paved. Most communities have some gravel roads. Railroads: The Union Pacific Railroad operates approximately 20 miles of track in the western and southwestern parts of the county, passing though Melcher-Dallas. The Burlington Northern-Santa Fe Railroad operates approximately 40 miles of railroad through the northwest, central, east, and southeast parts of the county, passing through Swan, Pleasantville, Knoxville, Harvey, Bussey, and Hamilton. Airports: Two municipal airports are in Marion County. The Knoxville Airport is located along Highway 14 just inside the southwest border of the city on 120 acres of land. This airport is a 4,000-foot long, 75-foot wide concrete surface airport with adjacent taxiway and associated hangars and beacons. Its elevation is 928 feet. Contact is 641.842.4423 and website is www.discoverknoxville.com/index.php?page&id=39. This airport has a full

http://www.weather.com/

http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/

http://www.discoverknoxville.com/index.php?page&id=39


Page 3.8

complement of weather reporting facilities. The Iowa Aviation System Plan identifies this facility is a General Service Airport. The Pella Airport is located just southwest of Highway 163 in the southwest corner of the City. This airport is a 5,400-foot length 75-foot width concrete surface airport with associated hangars and beacons. Its elevation is 885 feet. Contact is 641.628.9393. The Iowa Aviation System Plan identifies this facility is a General Service Airport. The following map shows the major roads and transportation facilities. Figure 3.4: Highway Classifications and Other Transportation Facilities Map


Page 3.9

3.1.9: Historic or Archaeological Sties & Districts There are many properties and one district in Marion County that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Table 3.5: National Register Sites in Marion County Property Address or Location Proximity or City Date listed Coal Ridge Baptist Church and Cemetery 1034 IA S71 Knoxville 08/23/2006 Chicago Rock Island and Pacific Passenger Depot

Jct. Of Main and Oskaloosa Sts. Pella 07/22/1991

East Amsterdam School 1010 198th Place Pella vicinity 12/01/2000 Ellis Evan F. Farmhouse Off Hwy. 156 Bussey 01/03/1985 First Christian Church 824 Franklin St. Pella 03/29/07 Hammond Bridge 170th Pl. over North Cedar Creek Hamilton vicinity 5/15/98 Harvey Railroad Bridge Harvey Island Rd. Harvey vicinity 5/15/98 Hays E. R. House 301 N. 2nd Street Knoxville 09/27/1984 Knoxville WPA Athletic Field Historic District Bounded by Lincoln St., Robinson St.,

Stadium St. and Marion St. Knoxville 08/02/2007

Philipus J. and Cornelia Koelman House 1005 Broadway St. Pella 12/21/2005 Marion County Courthouse Main Street Knoxville 07/02/1981 Pella Opera House 611 Franklin Street Pella 03/20/1992 People’s National Bank 717 Main St. Pella 4/21/2010 Porter-Rhynsburger House 514 Broadway Pella 8/28/2003 Scholte Dominie Henry P. House 739 Washington Street Pella 12/10/1982 St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church and Cemetery Historic District

1 mile E of jct. of Co. Rd. G76 and SE. 97th Street

Lacona 01/24/1995

Ten Hagen Cottage-Stegman Store 1110 W. Washington St. Pella 7/16/08 Van Maren, Henry and Johanna, House--Diamond Filling Station

615 Main St. Pella 7/10/08

Van Den Berg, Hendrik J. and Wilhelmina H., Cottage

1305 W. Washington Street Pella 8/28/2003

Vander Wilt, Dirk and Cornelia J., Cottage 925 Broadway Street Pella 08/08/2001 Van Loon Dirk House 1401 University Ave. Pella 11/17/1977 Van Spanckeren B. H. and J. H. H. Row Houses 505--507 Franklin Street Pella 02/12/1990 Wabash Railroad Bridge 216th Pl. over Des Moines River Pella vicinity 5/15/98 William Van Asch House- Huibert Debooy Filling Station

1105, 1107, and 1109 W. Washington St.

Pella 12/2/1987

Source: Iowa State Historical Society, www.iowahistory.org Pella has three State-certified cultural and entertainment districts. Other historic sites of local interest include many other buildings and bridges located throughout the county. 3.1.10: Solid Waste The South Central Iowa Landfill is located approximately 12 miles southeast of Knoxville along Highway T-17. Various independent solid waste contractors operate within and serve Marion County. The facility located at the landfill is managed by an intergovernmental agency created under the authority of Iowa Code 28E. Iowa Code requires all solid waste in Marion County to be delivered to this landfill. There is a Regional Collection Center (RCC) designed to collect household hazardous waste. This landfill aggressively addresses solid waste issues and is trained in hazardous materials handling and storage. 3.1.11: Population & Demographic Profile Marion County is a micropolitan county with a growing population and increasing development pressure in the northern half of the county, due to the proximity to Des Moines and various popular recreational areas. From 2000 to 2010, while the State of Iowa experienced a 4.1% increase in population during these years, Marion County gained approximately 3.9% population. This growth is concentrated in several areas throughout the county.

http://www.iowahistory.org/


Page 3.10

Table 3.6: Population Change in Marion County, 2000 to 2010 Census Population Community 2000 2010 Change % Change Bussey 450 422 -28 -6.2% Hamilton 144 130 -14 -9.7% Harvey 277 235 -38 -15.2% Knoxville 7,731 7,313 -418 -5.4% Marysville 54 66 12 22.2% Melcher-Dallas 1,298 1,288 -10 -0.8% Pella 9,832 10,352 520 5.3% Pleasantville 1,539 1,694 155 10.1% Swan 121 72 -49 -40.5% Rural County 10,606 11,737 1,131 10.7% Total County 32,052 33,309 1,257 3.9%

Source: Iowa Data Center, http://data.iowadatacenter.org, 2/2012 The first decade of the 21st Century finds the population growing on a countywide level, with most of the population growth occurring in rural areas followed by Pella. The rural areas are continuing to grow, as more people want to live near recreational areas and lakes. Populations actually declined in most of the cities. It is clear that most of the population is located in a few larger towns and certain areas of the rural part of the county. An analysis of the populations of rural township is also essential, as it tells us where in the rural part of the county the population is concentrated. As many hazards solely affect rural areas of the county or affect the entire county equally, an understanding of this data is necessary for hazard mitigation planning. Furthermore, data by township is easy to map and can be useful in targeting specific mitigation measures to areas where human or property impact would be greatest. Marion County has 12 townships that are composed of 36 square-mile sections each, more or less, with a few exceptions. The populations listed in the table below include the incorporated communities within the boundaries of each township as well. Table 3.7: Population of Marion County by Township Census Population Census Population 2010 % of Total 2010 % of Total Clay Twp 1,000 3.0% Liberty Twp 980 2.9% Dallas Twp 1,671 5.0% Pleasant Grove Twp 2,769 8.3% Franklin Twp 320 1.0% Red Rock Twp 596 1.8% Indiana Twp 726 2.2% Summit Twp 1,444 4.3% Knoxville Twp 10,373 31.1% Union Twp 388 1.2% Lake Prairie Twp 12,498 37.5% Washington Twp 544 1.6%

Source: Iowa Data Center, http://data.iowadatacenter.org, 2/2012 The larger townships with larger towns have the bulk of the population, but all townships have a larger population than the typical rural southern Iowa township. Woods and Poole Economics, used by the State of Iowa to create population projections, estimates that the population of Marion County will increase modestly at approximately the same rate as the State of Iowa over the next 30 years. Table 3.8: Woods & Poole Population Projections, Marion County and Iowa 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 Marion County 33,793 34,737 35,714 36,703 37,699 38,708 State of Iowa 3,097,663 3,172,237 3,249,751 3,328,308 3,407,575 3,487,942 Source: Iowa Data Center, http://data.iowadatacenter.org, 6/2011 Table 3.9 documents other demographic characteristics of Marion County per the 2010 Census.

http://data.iowadatacenter.org/




Page 3.11

Table 3.9: Demographic Profile of Marion CountySEX AND AGE

Male 16,541 49.7% Female 16,768 50.3% Under 5 years 2,220 6.7% 5 to 19 years 7,315 22.0% 20 to 64 years 18,582 55.8% 65 to 74 years 2,622 7.9% 75 years or older 2,570 7.7%

Median age (years) 38.6

RACE White 32,203 96.7% Black or African American 225 0.7% American Indian and Alaska Native 60 0.2% Asian 379 1.1% Native Hawaiian & Other Pacific Islander 6 0.0% Some other race 139 0.4%

Two or more races 345 1.0% Hispanic or Latino (of any race) 531 1.6%

RELATIONSHIP In households 31,616 94.9% In group quarters 1,693 5.1%

HOUSEHOLDS Total Households 12,723 100% Family households (families) 8,867 69.7% Nonfamily households 3,856 30.3%

Households with individuals under 18 years 4,169 32.8% Households with individuals 65 years & over 3,496 27.5%

Average household size 2.48 (X) Average family size 3.00 (X) Source: US Census Bureau

Most demographic trends experienced by Marion County between 2000 and 2010 mirror those of the state as a whole. However, there are small differences that are notable. Generally, it can be said that Marion County has a slightly younger population; there are more families with children. Additionally, there is somewhat limited racial diversity. 3.1.12: Housing Occupancy & Characteristics The total number of housing units in Marion County increased from 12,755 to 13,914 between 2000 and 2010 – a 9.1% increase. During that same period, the number of occupied units increased from 12,017 to 12,723, while the number of vacant properties increased by over 50%. The table below documents the jurisdictional data for various housing characteristics in Marion County: Table 3.10: Housing Occupancy Characteristics of Marion County (2010 Data) Total Units Occupied Owner Renter Vacant Bussey 209 176 132 44 33 Hamilton 54 49 41 8 5 Harvey 117 109 85 24 8 Knoxville 3,527 3,169 2,067 1,102 358 Marysville 29 23 23 0 6 Melcher-Dallas 584 527 440 87 57 Pella 4,086 3,735 2,479 1,256 351 Pleasantville 719 674 485 189 45 Swan 31 29 22 7 2 Rural County 4,558 4,232 3,800 432 326 Total County 13,914 12,723 9,574 3,149 1,191 Source: 2010 Census Data compiled by ISU Extension RECAP program, 2/2012 Manufactured housing poses unique risks in hazard events. Since they are often not permanently fixed to the ground and are built with simpler construction, they do not withstand high winds, fires, extreme temperatures, and some other hazards as easily. Marion County has some manufactured housing that meets this description, but not a large percentage of the housing stock. The mitigation strategies for addressing areas where larger number of units exist including special ordinances requiring shelters, the development of safe rooms in the area, stronger building codes, and warning signage. There are several manufactured home parks or areas in the county, and protection should be offered and provided in or near any recognized manufactured home area. All jurisdictions should address this issue on some scale because individual older manufactured homes exist in many or all jurisdictions.


Page 3.12

Because housing age, value, and condition are the key metrics by which vulnerability is ascertained and loss estimation is completed, these characteristics are described and discussed in more detail below. Table 3.11: Housing Age of Marion County (2000 Data) Year Built Number % 1990 to 2000 1,908 15.0% 1980 to 1989 1,157 9.1% 1970 to 1979 2,553 20.0% 1960 to 1969 1,514 11.9% 1950 to 1959 1,283 10.1% 1940 to 1949 799 6.3% 1939 or older 3,541 27.8% Median Year Built 1965 Marion County housing stock is newer on average than the state’s housing stock, but there are many homes that are over 70 years old. It is likely that, of these pre-1940 homes, a significant portion of them were built before the year 1900. The median housing age for individual communities ranges from 1960 or newer to pre-1940, with some of the communities in the latter category. The age of the housing structures in Marion County increases the susceptibility of these structures to strong winds, tornadoes, hail, lightning, or heavy snowfall loads. Furthermore, the electric wiring of these homes is often substandard and constitutes a significant fire hazard. One factor that relates to the age of homes and their condition is the value. At $102,220, the median value for an owner-occupied housing unit was much more than the State of Iowa value of $82,500 in 2000. 3.1.13: Educational Attainment The following two tables provide school enrollment data and educational attainment data for the year 2000. This data shows the current status of people living in the county, not the data for enrollment in a given school or college. Overall, the county is well educated. Table 3.12: School Enrollment, Persons 3 and Older (2000 Data) Number Percentage Nursery school, preschool 610 7.1% Kindergarten 432 5.0% Elementary school (grades 1-8) 3,735 43.3% High school (grades 9-12) 1,986 23.0% College or graduate school 1,856 21.6% Total Population 3 & Older Enrolled in School 8,619 100% Source: US Census Bureau, Census 2000 Table 3.13: Educational Attainment of Persons 25 and Older (2000 Data) Number Percentage Less than 9th Grade 1,541 7.5% 9th to 12th grade, no diploma 1,772 8.6% High School Graduate 8,390 40.6% Some College, no degree 3,704 17.9% Associate Degree 1,374 6.6% Bachelor's Degree 2,783 13.5% Graduate or Professional Degree 1,122 5.4% Total Population 25 or older 20,684 100% Source: US Census Bureau, Census 2000 A quarter of the county’s population is enrolled in school. Nearly 84% of the 20,684 persons 25 years of age or older have attained at least a high school diploma, and 19% have attained a Bachelor’s Degree or higher. Additionally, the educational assets of Marion County are important to consider in the hazard mitigation planning process– particularly for the students and faculty utilizing facilities within the county. The chart below details the


Page 3.13

enrollment of Marion County residents in area school districts. Only the school districts that have assets in the county are shown. Some students in these districts may live outside of the county and some county residents may enroll in districts not covered here. There are many physical educational assets in Marion County as well. The valuation and vulnerability of these assets are discussed in later chapters of this plan. However, a brief list of school facilities located within the boundaries of Marion County is documented in the table below. Table 3.14: School Facilities in Marion County

District Asset Addresses 2010-11 Enrollment Community

Knoxville CSD K-12

309 W. Main, Knoxville (admin) 1811 W. Madison (High School) 104 N. Lincoln (Middle School) 407 W. Larson (Elementary School) 305 S. Park Lane (Elementary School) 614 E. Washington (Alternative High School) 1,947 Knoxville, Harvey

Melcher-Dallas CSD K-12 1003 Park, Dallas (Elementary School) 214 S. Main, Melcher (High School 344 Melcher-Dallas

Pella CSD K-12

212 E. University, Pella (High School) 613 E. 13th St. (Middle School) 801 E. 13th St. (Intermediate School) 1102 Broadway (Elementary School) 950 E. University (Elementary School) 2,335 Pella

Pleasantville CSD K-12 415 Jones St., Pleasantville 695 Pleasantville, Swan

Twin Cedars CSD K-12 2204 Hwy G71, Bussey

468 Indiana Twp, Bussey, Marysville, Hamilton

Pella Christian School K-12 300 Eagle Lane (High School) 216 Liberty St. (Grade School)

Unknown Pella

Central College Private 4-year 812 University, Pella Unknown Pella Source: Iowa Dept. of Education Figure 3.5: Marion County School District Boundaries and Assets


Page 3.14

3.1.14: Economic & Social Characteristics Most employment and industry data is collected solely at the county level, and thus the data in this section reflects this limitation. The table below documents the changes in employment by industry between 1990 and 2000. March 3.15: Industry Classification of Employment in 2000 2000 Percent of Total Ag, Forestry, Mining, etc. 576 3,5% Construction 910 5.6% Manufacturing 4,625 28.5% Wholesale Trade 395 2.4% Retail Trade 1,497 9.2% Transportation, Warehousing, Utilities 495 3.0% Information 238 1.5% Finance, insurance, real estate, rental and leasing 907 5.6% Professional, Mgt, Admin, Science 607 3.7% Educational, health, social 3,789 23.3% Arts, entertainment, accommodations, food service 1,060 6.5% Public Administration 729 4.5% Other Services 423 2.6% 16,251 100.0% Overall, the range of employment industries in the county is very diverse. Many people worked in many different industries in 2000. This trend appears to continue today. Table 3.16: Labor Force Characteristics of Marion County in 2000

Number Percentage Population 16 years and over 24,960 100

In labor force 16,841 67.5 Civilian labor force 16,825 67.4

Employed 16,251 96.6 Unemployed 574 3.4

Mean travel time to work (minutes) 19.7 (X) Occupation – Employed 16+ Civilian Population Management, professional, and related 4,953 30.5 Service 2,358 14.5 Sales and office 3,941 24.3 Farming, fishing, and forestry 91 0.6 Construction, excavation, and maintenance 1,243 7.6 Production, transportation, and material moving 3,665 22.6 Source: US Census Bureau, Census 2000

The average worker in Marion County commutes nearly twenty minutes to work each day. This would be consistent with the idea that many people commute to larger regional hub such as Oskaloosa, Newton, Indianola, and Des Moines, for work. Many workers may travel from the fringes of the county to an employment center near in the middle of the county. Many also live in Pella and work in Knoxville, and vise versa. The unemployment rate for persons in the labor force is quite low at 3.4% in the data shown above– a figure consistent with statewide averages at that time. Since that time Iowa has experienced an economic downturn largely dictated by macroeconomic factors. Thus, these Census figures provide an accurate glimpse of Marion County during a time of relatively good economic health. The unemployment rate in December 2011 was a reasonably healthy 5.5%, which is below the 6.0% statewide rate. The occupation of individuals in Marion County largely mirrors the industry data presented earlier in this section. Professional, management, sales, office, and manufacturing and transportation have been strong, and other occupations remain weaker in employment.


Page 3.15

Table 3.17: Household Income Characteristics of Marion County in 2000 Number Percentage Median household income (dollars) 42,401 – Median family income (dollars) 50,052 – Per capita income (dollars) 18,717 –

Individuals below poverty level 2,323 7.6% 65 years and over 513 10.8% Related children under 18 years 699 8.7% Source: US Census Bureau, Census 2000

The median household income for Marion County was somewhat more than that of the State of Iowa, based on figures from the 2000 Census. At $42,401 the median household income was nearly 110% of the statewide median of $39,249. Overall, the income and earnings of the population are pretty good compared to much of Iowa. However, the income levels and poverty status of individuals varies greatly from community to community, where some communities are very poor compared to others. Table 3.18: Commuting Characteristics of Marion County

Mean Travel

Time to Work Drove Alone Carpooled

Public Transportation Walked

Other Means

Worked at Home

State of Iowa 18.5 78.58% 10.8% 1.02% 3.95% .9% 4.75% Marion County 19.7 75.1% 12.9% 0.7% 6.1% 0.9% 4.4% County of Residence Work in Marion Work Outside Marion Marion 12,727 3,319 Other Counties 5,686 Sources: US Census Bureau, Iowa Workforce Development

In addition to the mean travel time for the county, the above chart displays live and work locations. Principally, it can be seen that the majority of employees that work in Marion County reside in the county as well. However, 20.7% of workers that live in Marion County commute out of the county for work. Over 30% of workers in the county commute into the county for work. These trends result in a net in-migration of 2,367. 3.1.12: Media Contacts. The following public media exists in the area: KNIA/KRLS radio, Pella, [email protected], 641-628-8672 KCWN radio, [email protected], 888-506-4562 Diamond Trail News, [email protected], 641-594-4488 Pella Chronicle newspaper, [email protected], 641-628-3882, [email protected],

[email protected] Knoxville Journal Express newspaper, [email protected], 641-842-2155 Des Moines Register, newspaper, [email protected], 800-532-1455 ABC-WOI Channel 5 TV, www.woitv.com, 515-457-9645 CBS-KCCI Channel 8 TV, www.kcci.com, 515-247-8888 NBC-WHO Channel 13 TV, [email protected], 515-242-3500 Marion County News newspaper, [email protected], 515.848.5614 3.1.13: Communications and Response. With limited services in this and other rural counties, communications among and with responders is vital. To address the problem, Marion County has implemented an E-911 system dispatched and managed through the Sheriff’s Office in Knoxville. All areas of the county have been mapped and given an E-911 address. First responders have been trained on the system and know the territory. Figure 3.7 (next page) is the county’s E-911 service territories map.









http://www.woitv.com/

http://www.kcci.com/




Page 3.16

Figure 3.6: E-911 Emergency Services Zones

Vehicles, trained personnel, and volunteers have pagers and radios to communicate in all areas of the county. However, there are some shortcomings that continually need addressing. One of those is the quality of communication in remote areas of the county. To address this, repeaters have been installed on towers, buildings, and in vehicles in various jurisdictions. Many water towers and communications towers contain county and local communications equipment along with private data transfer equipment. It is not always known what is lightning protected. Yet, some areas have continued problems due to the hilly terrain. Another issue to which funding is limited is the new narrow-banding requirement, which will in 2013 make most existing emergency communications equipment obsolete. This most greatly affects small volunteer fire and EMS agencies. A back-up communications system is in place in the event of failure of the main emergency response system. Wireless and wired communications varies by area of the county. Knoxville and Pella have the best technology, with extensive looping of fiber lines in all parts of the towns by local utilities and Windstream Communications. Windstream (formerly Iowa Telecom) serves most of the county for daily personal communications using landline phones. Most of the county has reasonable access to cellular phone signals, but the best coverage is close to larger towns and along all main highways, where there are towers. Phone offices and cellular retail outlets can be found in many jurisdictions.


Page 3.17

Figure 3.7: Marion County Broadband Service Inventory Map 3.1.14: Warning Systems. Warning alerts are provided via five mediums in Marion County and most vigilant persons will be alerted of impending disasters and other warnings. The primary and most known medium is TV and radio alerts. With local and cable weather channels, AM and FM radio, and amateur radio, all parts of the county, even those with satellite services can be alerted to all hazards. Certain unique vulnerable populations need more precise warning efforts. Students, seniors, those in campgrounds and rural outdoor areas, and institutionalized persons need special alert mechanisms, including weather radio and secondary alert systems built into housing units. These two methods are used to great effect in certain critical assets. However, funding for weather radio has been too limited to make it affordable for many in these situations. For example, Marion County Conservation Board staff use vehicles to alert campers and has weather radios on site. Warning sirens are great alert systems for those who are outdoors in local cities with sirens. However, many rely upon them for alerting of hazards when they are indoors instead of listening to weather radio (which is battery powered). Sirens are available in all the cities, and most of them work adequately. Decibel studies should be performed regularly on sirens to ensure they really meet needs. Warning sirens don’t exist in rural campgrounds and recreational areas where concentrations of people often exist.


Page 3.18

The fifth means of alert is a reverse E-911 program (Code Red or similar). This service has improving capabilities and is now available to all persons with a phone. This service is expensive and should not be a first-line alert for severe storms like tornadoes. It can be very effective for other emergencies, such as invoking evacuations or lock-downs or warnings of disease outbreaks or other man-made or cascading effects. 3.1.15: Community Shelters and Protection Facilities. Emergency shelters provide short-term and sometimes long-term lodging and feeding location for people and sometimes pets and animals during and after a hazard event. Many hazards cause widespread damage that displace people. Several facilities exist, including community centers, senior and special needs housing facilities, churches, and other facilities that have food and lodging capabilities. Some of them are known to the public, some of them are stocked, and some of them are available for sleeping. However, few of them have on-site backup power sources and on-site medical supplies. Many are not formally designated and promoted to the public as safe places for emergencies. As part of the mitigation planning process in Chapter 6 includes a list of critical assets by jurisdiction that can serve as shelters (including those that are designated and those that are not). Groups like the American Red Cross are available to assist with proper promotion and use of shelters. Many, but not all possible shelters, have fixed backup generators. The following sections of this chapter details jurisdictions with fixed generators. Some hazards, such as tornadoes, require unique sheltering. Tornado safe rooms are designed to withstand 250-MPH winds. None (officially) exist in the county at this time, even though vulnerable areas exist, such as old homes, schools, parks, and manufactured home parks. A safe room project is in application stage for Knoxville Schools. Other jurisdictions have interest in this mitigation measure. 3.1.16: Unique Role of Agriculture and History of Mining During the hazard mitigation planning meetings, one topic continued to arise. Marion County is home to dozens of large animal feeding operations, agricultural chemical facilities, and food processing facilities. Many of these are very rural, but some of them are in towns or near them. Unique risks, such as human and animal disease incidents, agro-terrorism, transportation and fixed HAZMAT incidents, and other hazards are much more likely when these large farms are developed. Dozens of facilities in the county handle crops, manufacture implement parts, raise and process livestock, and ship products. Some of the critical assets in Chapter 6 are these kind of facilities. Anhydrous ammonia is stored in many locations in towns and rural areas and towns of Marion County. These facilities are generally well monitored to prevent theft and vandalism. Local highways transport large amounts of dangerous chemicals but the routes are not designated especially for this use. Mining has been a major part of the county’s history and to a lesser degree remains important. Few good data sources about mines exist. However, risks such as landslides, expansive soils, and sinkholes can result from abandoned and open mining areas. These risks can impact unsuspecting development areas or even areas where development has been safe for many years. Most former mining areas are in the south half of the county. Current strip mining areas are found in the alluvial plains of the Des Moines River valley. 3.2: Jurisdictional Descriptions and Capabilities This plan’s jurisdiction profile includes an overview of the noted jurisdictions and their organizational structure; a description of staff, fiscal and technical resources, and information regarding existing hazard mitigation capabilities such as adopted plan policies and regulations, if any. The descriptions and capabilities assessments are based on available and applicable data, including information provided by the jurisdictions collected during the planning process. Officials from the jurisdictions were specifically invited and encouraged to participate in the multi-jurisdictional planning process, including the selection and appointment of the planning team. Jurisdictions provided available data for infrastructure details, prior planning details, previously completed and/or ongoing mitigation actions, et al.


Page 3.19

via phone, email, and/or during the public hazard mitigation planning meetings. Community members represented their various entities, including local fire departments and emergency response personnel, elected officials, school officials, conservation board personnel and others. In their respective capacities they functioned as planners to advise and guide the plans risk assessment analysis and mitigation action selection. Due to current data limitations as described in Section 3.4, only accurate and identifiable data and details is/are included within the plan. As noted, the following jurisdictions had officials participate during the planning process and/or adopt the countywide plan. With their adoption of the countywide plan, each jurisdiction individually verified that the hazards identified in the plan impact their jurisdiction in a manner consistent with other identified jurisdictions – and that they verify concurrence to the list of goals and mitigation action items. All participating jurisdictions assisted in the listing of and description of current mitigation actions and capabilities to implement other actions. This was completed through a survey listing well over a hundred possible mitigation actions. A copy of that survey is found in Appendix D. Actions that are underway or completed are described in this chapter by jurisdiction. The Marion County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) is responsible for county emergency response policies and for preparing local emergency personnel for emergency response. This duty includes cooperation with the county board of supervisors, who are responsible for approving appropriate countywide efforts. The countywide leadership by the EMA and the hired Coordinator has advanced the county in terms of mitigation planning and activities. The emergency management commission includes representatives from each city, a county Supervisor, and the county Sheriff’s office. The nine city governments, five school districts, two hospitals, Army Corps of Engineers, Iowa DNR, and Central College approve local mitigation efforts in their respective jurisdictions. Using the State’s example list of alternative mitigation actions as a guide, and eliminating those that only pertain to hazards that can occur in each jurisdiction, local officials have identified which mitigation measures are being implemented in each jurisdiction from among over 100 potential actions. During discussion, others may have been added. As part of the planning process, it is vital to review current efforts so policies can be upgraded before events occur. Various data sources at the local, regional, and state levels provide a summary of mitigation efforts in the county. The following results are provided for each jurisdiction. Note that we have indicated the key hazard(s) each action or program addresses.

Marion County This section of the plan addresses the following two entities: a) the rural part of the county not included in incorporated areas (cities and towns), and b) County-owned assets located in any jurisdiction. The County is run and managed by a board of supervisors composed of three elected members and approximately 20 department heads that cover numerous County functions. Several of the department heads, such as Sheriff, Auditor, Treasurer, and Recorder, are elected. Others are appointed as civil servants, including such departments as Engineer/Secondary Roads, Public Health, Zoning, E911, Assessor, and the Emergency Management Coordinator. The EM Coordinator is the lead on hazard mitigation planning in the county and coordinates with other County officials and the various other jurisdictions, including schools, hospitals, Cities, townships, and fire/EMS departments. Many of the departments serve under both the Board of Supervisors and separate elected or appointed commissions or committees.


Page 3.20

Townships and other rural jurisdictions fall under the participation requirements and planning status of the county for the purposes of this plan. There are two exceptions. Because of the unique features of two townships—Indiana Township and Clay Township—which operate their own active fire districts and own major assets, they have participated individually in the plan and have adopted the plan. Additionally, there are several unincorporated towns in the county that fall under the Marion County, Clay Township Fire, or Indiana Township Fire jurisdictions plans. These include Columbia, Attica, Pershing, Otley, Tracy, Bethel, Durham, and others. Other jurisdictions that fall into the County section of the plan include County parks (Cordova Park at Red Rock Lake Roberts Creek Park near Lake Red Rock, Marion County Park near Knoxville, and others), State parks (Elk Rock State Park at Red Rock Lake), and Federal parks (Red Rock Lake Dam and Wildlife Area and various campgrounds surrounding the lake). Maps of these facilities can be found on the

county’s mapping website: www.co.marion.ia.us/offices/gis/gismaps.htm. Some say Marion County was named for a pioneer who was a favorite character among early settlers. It could also have been named for Francis Marion, American commander in the Revolutionary War. The popularity of the name is attested by the 17 counties in the U.S. of that name. Marion County, Iowa, was formally organized in 1845, and Knoxville was chosen as the county seat. The first courthouse was a log cabin. In 1856, the people became dissatisfied and decided the county was rich enough to have a new courthouse. In 1895 the Board called for a special election to replace the 1856 brick courthouse. Another new courthouse was proposed in the 1960s but was voted down. Instead, updating the old courthouse began in 1972. Today, the beautiful old courthouse has a good sound foundation and an interior full of history. The Iowa flag was designed by Marion County native Dixie Cornell Gebhardt. The flag was carried during World War I by local troops and the Iowa Legislature approved it as the state flag on March 29, 1921. The mining that was common in the county for many years has diminished but some surface mining of gravel, sand, and limestone is still found along the Des Moines River and other alluvial areas. More recently, the rural county has continued to grow as a center for agriculture, recreation, transportation, and countryside living. Marion County base map is located as Figure 3.2 on Page 3.2. 3.2.1: Marion County Infrastructure, Services, and Resources Potable water is provided by several municipal suppliers adjacent to some of the cities, Marion County Rural Water, Central Iowa Rural Water, and Mahaska County Rural Water. These utilities treat water from other surface (lake and river) sources and groundwater (drilled wells). Water treatment plants, water pumps, and water towers are found throughout the county. Most of the rural part of the county, with the exception of unincorporated Tracy and some of the populated areas adjacent to cities, are not served by public central sewer systems. Individual landowners have septic systems and lateral fields. The County Environmental Health and IDNR administer these systems and enforce environmental laws related to them. Rural electric systems are provided by regulated utilities and rural electric cooperatives, which provide power in all parts of the county. Several major power lines and substations are found in the rural part of the county. Pella Electric Cooperative covers much of the north and northeast half of the county. The Coop operates from Pella and has $9.5 million in assets and 1940 accounts. There are few or no rural production facilities. A few landowners my have their own generators and wind turbines, but most production is in local communities and outside of the county.

http://www.co.marion.ia.us/offices/gis/gismaps.htm


Page 3.21

Figure 3.8: Pella Cooperative Electric Services

Natural gas services provide energy to a few areas where pipelines travel. The major pipeline travels west-east through the central to south-central part of the county, just south of Knoxville and north of Melcher-Dallas. There are branch lines going to various cities in the county. A major rural pump station is located at 1300 block of 165th Street. Most rural homes, businesses, and farms are served by private individual LP services. Individual tanks are located above ground in yards. The County Engineer (Secondary Roads Department) is responsible for construction and maintenance of the secondary road system in Marion County. Marion County’s road system has 865 miles of roadway. This includes 135.6 miles of paved roads; 655.6 miles of gravel, 31.9 miles of seal coated roads and 41.8 miles of dirt roads. The system also includes 237 bridges and 88 large culverts. Many paved roads are found in rural areas that connect towns and that access the many recreational areas from the towns. The County works in partnership with the IDOT to manage rural roads of all levels, including the five state highways. The County manages hundreds of miles of ditches and other ROW areas. Many railroad crossings are at grade with roads in the rural area, but most major highways cross over or under railroad lines to allow unimpeded traffic. There are no major areas that are blocked by train crossings in emergencies without a second outlet. The County Engineer is the Flood Plain Manager. The department contains flood plain information and links at www.co.marion.ia.us/offices/engineer/index.htm. The Engineer enforces the prohibition of development in the

http://www.co.marion.ia.us/offices/engineer/index.htm


Page 3.22

flood zone in cooperation with the County Zoning Administrator. The Dept. of Environmental Health administers programs and does inspections of homes impacted by flash flooding. That department provides flood and mold information at www.co.marion.ia.us/offices/environmental_health/index.htm. Fire and EMS are provided by area fire departments, mostly in towns and communities. All area fire departments serve rural areas around the towns, and all work together via mutual aid agreements. Two fire departments are housed in rural areas (Clay and Indiana Townships) in the unincorporated areas of Tracy and Attica. Several rural fire hydrants and dry hydrants are found in strategic locations around the county. Most roads and bridges can accommodate fire trucks and rescue vehicles. All departments have small off-road grass and wildland fire vehicles. Fire districts are mapped on Map 3 – 7 contains the emergency services districts. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of the Iowa Highway Patrol and county/state/federal conservation law enforcement, serves the needs of the rural area of the county and – under contract - the other jurisdictions. The Sheriff’s Office patrols the 576 square miles of the county and is the chief law enforcement for the cities of Bussey, Harvey, Swan; the non-incorporated villages of Tracy, Otley, Columbia, Pershing and Attica, and all other unincorporated areas of Marion County. The Sheriff’s Office provides 24 hour dispatching of Law Enforcement, Fire and EMS Services within Marion County with the exception of Pella Police, Pella Fire and Pella Ambulance. The Sheriff’s Office is located in the Marion County Law Enforcement Center. The Sheriff's office is a member of Mid-Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force and all full-time employees are members of the Iowa State Sheriff's and Deputies Association. The Fiscal Year 2010 100% valuations for rural Marion County were $600 million for residential properties, $249 million for agricultural property, $19.2 million for commercial property, $1.5 million for industrial property, $18 million for railroad property, $57 million for utilities. Marion County levied a tax rate of $10.98648 for regular property; the extended tax rate varies from $27.00428 to $34.69161. Specifically, the General Basic rate is $3.50, General Supplemental is $2.21, Rural Basic is $3.90. Other funds take less than $1 each per $1,000 valuation. The rural part of the county is served by numerous school districts, churches, civic groups, volunteer organizations, and key businesses. The rural area is home to many key convenience stores and other goods providers along the four-lane highways. However, many rural residents and property owners must go to area towns, however, to access community shelters, government services, lodging, and medical care. There are no warning sirens in rural development and recreational areas. People in these areas would have to rely upon weather radio, phone alerts (such as reverse E911), and wireless Internet to be alerted to hazard event warnings. The County has a contract with the Red Cross to administer facilities during and after disaster events. Some rural assets have fixed backup generators, but a list of these locations has not been provided in the planning process. Some organizations have portable standby generators, such as fire departments and the Secondary Roads Department. No facilities in the rural area are designated as tornado safe rooms capable of withstanding 250 MPH winds. Public service providers for the rural Marion County are as follows: Water: Various rural water providers, private wells on individual farms, adjacent municipal utilities Sewer: adjacent municipal utilities, individual private septic tank Electric: MidAmercian Energy, Alliant Energy, Pella Cooperative, other electric cooperatives Natural Gas: MidAmercian Energy, Alliant Energy, individual LP tanks supplied by local LP dealers Internet and Phone: Windstream, Mediacom, and wireless in some locations Ambulance: Various fire departments and the two hospitals in the county Public notifications: Knoxville Journal Express, Pella Chronicle Sanitation: various contract private haulers

http://www.co.marion.ia.us/offices/environmental_health/index.htm


Page 3.23

Civic organizations: FFA, 4-H, veterans groups, chambers of commerce, conservation and wildlife groups The County’s official website, which includes extensive local information along with official County business is www.co.marion.ia.us. 3.2.2: NFIP Participation Marion County participates in the NFIP Program. The CID# is 190889. The County has been in the program since 2001. There are 15 policies in force, there have been 9 claims totaling $271,815, and there are no repetitive loss properties. Marion County has a completed digital FIRM. Nearly 15% of the total county area is located within special flood hazard areas (SFHA) as identified by FEMA. Figure 3.9: FIRM Map for Marion County (not an official map – from County GIS only)

There are several Federal reporting flood gages in Marion County, reported at the following US Army Corps of Engineers website: www2.mvr.usace.army.mil/WaterControl/new/layout.cfm. The following table describes these facilities.

http://www.co.marion.ia.us/


Page 3.24

Table 3.19: River Gages in Marion County Stream name Gage Info Location Misc.

Des Moines River Gage Zero: 699.14 Ft. NGVD29

Lat 41°29'21.84", long 93°16'41.70" referenced to North American Datum of 1983, in NE 1/4 SW 1/4 NE 1/4 sec.9, T.77 N., R.21 W., Marion County, Hydrologic Unit 07100008, on left bank 75 ft south of Beardsley Drive, 4.5 mi downstream of bridge on State Highway 316, 1.6 mi northeast of Swan, 3.9 mi downstream from Camp Creek, 23.7 mi upstream from Red Rock Dam, and 162.9 mi upstream from mouth.

Whitebreast Creek Gage Zero: 762.83 Ft. NGVD29

Marion County on the right bank, 5 ft upstream from bridge on 30th Avenue, 2.3 miles northwest of Dallas and 1 mile upstream of Kirk Branch. Note: The new gage is located 1.3 miles upstream from the old gage.

Flood stage: 22 ft. Record high stage: 33.45 Ft.

Des Moines River Gage Zero: 0 Ft. NGVD29

Marion County 4.5 miles southwest of Pella at the outlet works near right the end of Red Rock Dam and 1.4 miles upstream from Lake Creek.

Record high stage: 782.67 Ft.

Des Moines River Gage Zero: 600.00 Ft. NGVD29

Marion County on the right bank .4 miles downstream of the Lake Red Rock outflow and .8 miles upstream from Lake Creek.

Record high stage: 109.71 Ft.

English Creek Gage Zero: 721.79 Ft. NGVD29

Marion County on the left bank 30 ft from the left upstream abutment of the bridge on State Highway 92 and 3 miles east of Knoxville

Flood stage: 17 ft. Record high stage: 27.88 Ft.

Cedar Creek Gage Zero: 682.15 Ft. NGVD29

Marion County on the left bank, 10 ft downstream of the highway bridge, 1.6 miles northwest of Bussey, 3 miles upstream from Honey Creek and 0.8 miles downstream of North Cedar Creek.

Flood Stage: 18 ft. Record high stage: 34.61 Ft.

Source: Army Corps of Engineers, 2012 3.2.3: Planning Capabilities and Status Marion County has a paid county emergency management coordinator, who is in charge of countywide programs and operations. Other offices address hazard mitigation issues mainly as they pertain to emergency response. The County EM commission calls, at a minimum, quarterly meetings where issues are discussed and business is undertaken. Each jurisdiction participates as representatives to the voting board. Regular exercises and trainings are undertaken. The county coordinator acts as the contact between state and federal agencies and the local public and governments in the event of a disaster and has a key role in hazard mitigation planning. This office is in charge of mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. Once this plan is in place, and greater resources are provided to the county emergency management office, the capacity of the county to undertake mitigation actions should increase. Implementing the NIMS process, where local elected officials are educated about these issues, should increase interest and likely funding. The Marion County Emergency Management Coordinator states that the Agency offers several services for all natural disasters, including but not limited to: a) handling incident cleanup, b) requests for State declaration and equipment c) formal report submission when required by FEMA for a Presidential Declaration, and d) capturing photos and completing basic paperwork. The website for the coordinator and the agency is: www.co.marion.ia.us/offices/ema/index.htm. Previous to this plan, there was no planning framework explicitly for hazard mitigation. However, many mitigation activities and some mitigation planning topics, such as hazard identification, are addressed in the countywide emergency operations plan. Per the State of Iowa, each county EMA must adopt and maintain a plan, and the EMA assists various cities to adopt local EOPs. These EOPs are being revised throughout the State of Iowa at this time to a new format. Yet, the basic functions of the EOP remain the same: to address the needs of emergency

http://www.co.marion.ia.us/offices/ema/index.htm

http://www.co.marion.ia.us/images/ema/MARIONEM_Logo_7.jpg%20v1.jpg�


Page 3.25

management and response. Some parts must be updated and submitted to the State of Iowa annually and other parts must be submitted periodically. Several topics in the EOP relate to hazard mitigation. One of them is the “mitigation plan” which is really a mini HARA with a hazard scoring system. A new Emergency Services Format (ESF) is being used. Topics addressed include: a) command and control, b) communications and warning, c) damage assessment, d) emergency public information, e) evacuation, f) fire and EMS services, g) health and medical, h) law enforcement, i) mass care, j) sheltering, k) public works and utilities, l) radiological incidents, m) resource management, n) human resources, o) search and rescue, p) hazardous materials, and q) terrorism. The EOP helps tie the various resources at the local, county, state, and federal level as to how they collaborate in the emergency management efforts. The EOP was reviewed briefly as part of this plan, but both plans are stand-alone documents and details from one plan are not necessarily translated into other plans. Many of the planning and emergency response capabilities are addressed adequately in the EOP plan and its implementation by the EMA and local officials in individual jurisdictions. Responsibilities and provider descriptions were sufficient for initial mitigation planning purposes. There appears to be sufficient division of duties and elected official oversight. Each section has preparedness and response checklists that can be used before, during, and after an incident and an incident command flow chart. The EOP is current and compliant with the State of Iowa. Greater review and use of this plan is seen to be a need in the hazard mitigation process for the next five years. This plan is annually updated and is compliant to this writing. The county is also compliant in the training and exercises reflected in the plan. In 2010, the county’s EOP was converted to an Emergency Services Format (ESF) per direction of Iowa Homeland Security Region. The county addresses several hazards on a multi-jurisdictional level. For example, communications are addressed by a communications plans and by an E-911 board. The Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) addresses hazardous materials. Local fire departments monitor and inspect individual HAZMAT sites. State officials lead many hazard mitigation efforts and regulate facilities, such as the Iowa DOT handling transportation incidents, the Iowa DNR and Utilities Board handling pipelines and HAZMAT sites, and Iowa Dept. of Public Health handling disease incidents. These other plans address the capabilities to implement the hazard mitigation plan, but they alone do not mitigate hazards in the absence of a mitigation plan designed to address the prevention of hazards and reduction of losses. The EOP and other local plans are still necessary because not all hazards can be prevented, and response, recovery, and preparation are still needed. The County’s EOP and individual jurisdiction EOPs address the capabilities in each jurisdiction well. Through many trainings, exercises, and workshops, local officials have a good idea of what can be used within the county to address local needs. There is a Red Rock Dam and Saylorville Dam Emergency Response Plan adopted by the County and housed at the County EMA. The rural area would be severely impacted by a dam failure of any magnitude. Traffic would be rerouted in many areas and key roads would be closed. Many County roads and other County assets would be damaged and response would be greatly compromised. Other planning and training efforts include: Other plans in place include comprehensive plan adopted in 1996, a capital improvement plan (Secondary

Roads), land use plan, watershed plan (NRCS/SWCD in some areas), and a critical asset list. Policies and ordinances include: zoning ordinance (adopted in June 2010), floodplain ordinance, subdivision

ordinance (adopted in December 2010), nuisance ordinance, site review plan requirements, and a debris management plan (adopted in 2009).

The Lake Red Rock area is part of a wetlands and riparian areas conservation plan.


Page 3.26

Programs include: NFIP participation (since 1994), NWS Storm Ready designation (in progress), public education efforts (various County departments), and tree trimming programs on rights of way.

Studies and reports available include: past HARA, existing FIRM, evacuation route map, and critical facilities inventory.

The Army Corps of Engineers continues to seek necessary land acquisition opportunities to ensure the long-term needs of flood hazard mitigation near and upstream of Red Rock Lake. Engineering studies of streams are ongoing.

Staffing and technical programs include: GIS specialist, engineer, EM Coordinator, NFIP floodplain administrator, bomb squad (since 2010), LEPC, EM Commission, Sanitation Department, and Transportation Department.

Marion County is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Law enforcement has adopted or completed Terrorism Awareness training, Weapons of Mass Destruction

training, and HAZMAT Operations training. Local storm spotters are trained and dispatched. NGOs include: American Red Cross, Salvation Army, veterans groups, utility companies, homeowners and

neighborhood associations, chambers of commerce, community groups, and Lake Area and County Development Commissions.

Mutual aid agreements are on file for all services. 3.2.4: Current Mitigation Actions The County and groups within the rural area participates in a number of mitigation actions. The following table describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive. Table 3.20: Marion County Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions

Primary Hazards Addressed by Mitigation Action – Priority Group 1

Mitigation Action

Status

Notes W

inds

torm

Seve

re w

inte

r sto

rm

Thun

ders

torm

/ligh

tnin

g

Ener

gy fa

ilure

Hai

lsto

rm

Com

mun

icat

ions

failu

re

Extre

me

heat

Flas

h flo

od

Gra

ss a

nd w

ildla

nd fi

re

Dro

ught

Riv

er fl

ood

Torn

ado

Availability of cable or satellite with weather advisory overrides

Ongoing Now providing local and cable/satellite channels

X X X X X X X X

Develop annual leadership awareness campaign about the mitigation plan

Ongoing EMA is aggressive in promoting the plan

X X X X X X X X X X X X

Increase public awareness of household hazardous materials

Ongoing Provided by landfill X X X

Rail and highway safety education programs for youth

Ongoing Provided in area schools and by law enforcement

X X X X

Develop/maintain hazardous materials inventories and list of facilities with hazardous materials

Ongoing ESF 10 completed – needs updated from time to time

X X X

Discourage/prohibit development in flood plain areas – join or continue participating in NFIP

Ongoing Ordinances in place, NFIP compliant, maps are current

X X

Implement zoning ordinances Ongoing In place – should review to include mitigation measures

X X X X X X X X X

Formulate partnerships to gain legislation

Ongoing NACo and ISAC involvement


Investigate alternative sources for fire suppression

Complete Surface and underground sources identified/studied

X

Inspect water lines Ongoing Rural water services X X X X X


Page 3.27

Install/update anti-virus software Ongoing County offices up to date X X Install speed limit signs Complete Adequate throughout county Hire certified flood manager, provide training

Complete, ongoing

County Engineer serves this role right now

X X

Encourage citizen purchase and use of fire extinguishers and smoke detectors

Ongoing Provided adequately by all fire departments

Maintain sandbags in dry storage Complete County sheds have modest supply, Army Corps of Engineers (ACE) has modest supply, supplies of sand exist in the area

X X

Remove asbestos from public buildings

Complete As far as known and tested X X

Post “no dumping” signs Complete Adequate for current needs X X X X X X X Remove dead vegetation on public properties and ROWs

Ongoing County, State, and ACE staff handles this as needed

X X X X X X X X X X

Adopt a thorough EOP addressing multiple hazards and capabilities including mass casualties plan

Complete, ongoing

EMA administers, writes, and updates, with support of local jurisdictions


Annual storm spotter training Ongoing Provided annually by NWS and EMA; ACE and IDNR takes part also

X X X X X X

Develop search and rescue team Complete, active

Red Rock dive team X X X X X X X

Continuity of operations and succession plan

Complete Complete for Pella Electric Cooperative

X X X X X X X X X X X

Develop volunteer base Complete County maintains a good database

X X X X X X X X X X

Emergency guidebooks in key emergency vehicles

Complete IDOT supplies X X X X X X X X X X X

Establish backup communications center or facilities

Complete EMA, E911, Sheriff collaborate

X

Participate in a regional HAZMAT team agreement

Complete, ongoing

County has contract with Des Moines Fire/HAZMAT

X X X X

Build highway or rail overpasses to reduce intersection accidents

Complete Key intersections are converted to interchanges and rail goes over or under four-lane highways

Construct or repair dams Complete Current dams meet needs but need regular inspections (Red Rock inspected often)

X

Develop reservoirs and lakes (water source and flood control)

Complete Major facilities in place, except more farm ponds may help with upstream water control

X X X X X

Install pressure tanks/towers for potable water

Complete Rural water has full supply of towers strategically placed

X X X

Road bypass construction Complete Major four-lane roads bypass high traffic areas

Flush dead end water mains Ongoing Rural water implements Install hazard signs in area parks, campgrounds, open spaces

Complete Army Corps of Engineers (ACE) sites have appropriate signs – more info may be needed

X X X X X X X X

Adopt tree trimming ordinances Complete ACE has policies on and near public land

X X X X X X X X X

Develop/enforce snow removal policies

Ongoing ACE has policies on and near public land

X

Remove underground fuel storage tanks

Complete As fare as known X X

Develop/implement a thorough recovery plan for power failure

Complete ACE has in place X X


Page 3.28

Purchase road closure barricades Complete ACE has in place X X X X X X X X Construct or elevate wastewater lift stations

Complete ACE properties with sewer have proper lift stations

X X

Construct storage facilities for pesticides, insecticides, chemicals

Complete Adequate near ACE property as far as known

X X X X X X X X

GIS mapping system, digital hazard maps

Underway ACE and County have some maps – more could be added

X X X X X X

Purchase and install fixed power generators and pumps

Complete Available on key assets on ACE properties

X X X X X X X

Dozens of actions are being undertaken in rural Marion County and/or affecting County assets, either by the County government or by partnering agencies, such as, but not limited to, County agencies and boards, the Emergency Management Agency, rural water agencies, rural electric cooperatives, State and Federal landowners, local fire departments, or utility companies. 3.2.5: Lake Red Rock and Army Corps of Engineers The Army Corps of Engineers (ACE), which owns and manages much of Lake Red Rock and the surrounding public lands in the northern part of Marion County, participated in the plan individually and developed its own risk assessment, capability assessment, and project list. Because the ACE is another federal agency, it has not adopted this plan pursuant to receiving FEMA funds. Rather, the agency contributed to the development of the County’s plan, including the evaluation of mitigation actions of interest to the ACE. The ACE will be a partner in the County’s plan implementation process (Chapters 9 and 10). Figure 3.10: Map of Lake Red Rock Public Areas

Lake Red Rock information can be obtained at www.redrockarea.com/. The official ACE website is

http://www.redrockarea.com/


Page 3.29

www2.mvr.usace.army.mil/RedRock/. Lake Red Rock, Iowa’s largest lake, is a man-made reservoir on the Des Moines River that is designed as a flood prevention reservoir, and largely this function is met. Flooding downstream of the dam in areas to the east of the lake in Marion and other counties does not flood as badly as during past flood events (such as 1851, 1859, 1903, 1944, 1947, and 1954) before the dam was constructed from 1960-69. Plans are underway to install a 36 to 55 megawatt hydroelectric facility at the dam from 2013-2015. Agreements on the $250 million project are in the final stages. This project will mitigate to some degree the incidents of power failure in the region, namely at Pella, which has bought into the generating capacity of this facility. Most of the dam is earthen, with a paved two-lane road crossing the top of the dam, but the control outlet structure is made of concrete. The dam is 5,676 feet long and 100 feet tall and holds 15,250 acres of water. At average elevation of 742 feet, the record pool to date was on July 13, 1993, when the elevation was 782 feet, when the lake covered 70,000 acres, including mostly agriculture and undeveloped areas in northwest Marion County, northeast Warren County, and southeast Polk County. 3.2.6: Outlook and Future Development The population of the rural part of the county is likely to continue a slow to moderate growth, as has been the case in recent years, especially in the north half of the county (north of and near Iowa Highway 92). Most rural development will be residential, but some will be commercial, government, institutional, and recreational. Conversion of farmland on a moderate scale is likely, but development is not likely in identified or other possible flood hazard areas. The enthusiasm of the EM Coordinator is such that implementation of this plan is very likely.

City of Bussey Located in the southeast corner of the county in Liberty Township on an upland ridge with access via paved County Highways G-71 and T-23, Bussey is home to 422 people. A single-track BNSF Railroad travels from north to south through the town. The town occupies 0.33 square miles, much of which is residential area, surrounded by agricultural land along the fringes of the city. Approximately 5 miles of mostly gravel and blacktop roads are found in the city, occupying a mostly grid pattern. The town’s mean elevation is 849 feet. Bussey was laid out in July 1875 along what was then the A. K. & D. Railroad. Initially it had a population of around 100 people and had about a dozen businesses. Over time the town grew as railroad and agricultural production and use increased. The town has shown reasonably steady levels of population over recent history. The Bussey area was once a prominent coal mining area. The base map of Bussey (next page) shows the town boundaries, street patterns, and key facilities. 3.2.7: Bussey Infrastructure, Services, and Resources The governing body includes one mayor, a mayor pro-tem, and a five-person city council. The council meets monthly at a modern city hall that includes a fire station and a community center with a kitchen. The City employs a city clerk, superintendent, and other seasonal staff. The City owns and operates a sewer system and a lagoon system just east of town. The City contracts with MidAmerican Energy to provide electricity and natural gas to the town. MidAmerican owns an electric substation on the east edge of the town. There is no local production of these utilities. Drinking water is provided by Mahaska Rural Water, which owns a tower in the town. The City maintains a local water utility and covers billing for the water provider. The City also owns a water tower in town, with emergency communications mounted to the top of the tower. The water tower capacities are 90,000 gallons and 35,000 gallons respectively. The water production capacity available to Bussey is 1,000,000 gallons per day. The town does not have an active storm water control program or infrastructure. Figure 3.11: Map of City of Bussey


Page 3.30

The town is served by the Bussey Fire Department, which is an all-volunteer force of 17 members based in a six-year old station in the town of Bussey. The fire department also provides EMS/first response services. The department is part of a multi-jurisdictional mutual aid compact. The fire and EMS service owns a portable power generator and for the most part modern equipment and vehicles. Members are trained and participate in drills and exercises. The department owns eight vehicles, including a pumper, two water tankers, a rapid response brush/grass truck, and two ambulances. The First Responder Non-transport Medical Response Service and the Clay Township Rescue Service, which offers transport, are paged at the same time through the E911 Center. Bussey has its own one-person (part time, 20-hour/week) police force and contracts with the Sheriff for assistance as needed. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office in Knoxville is the County’s E911 dispatch center. Marion County EMA provides services to the City. Twin Cedars CSD serves the City and surrounding area from a campus about three miles northwest of town in Liberty Township on Highway G-71. The Fiscal Year 2010 100% valuations for Bussey were $7.3 million for residential properties, $70,000 for agricultural property, $0.5 million for commercial property, $0.2 million for railroad property, $0.3 million for utilities. Bussey levied a tax rate of $12.45526 for regular property; the extended tax rate was $35.14794. The City operates the city hall/fire station/community center, the library, senior center, two parks, the Bussey Memorial Building, the central water tower, and the City maintenance shop.


Page 3.31

Bussey is home to two convenience stores/gas stations, a day care facility, a bank, two churches, an outpatient health clinic, and a small senior housing complex with 10 units. Bussey has one centrally-located warning siren that is manually sounded by the Fire Department upon notification of a warning from Marion County. The City Hall/Community Center has a fixed power generator that can be used during power outages. Two churches and the City Hall/Community Center have kitchens that can serve the public during disaster events. The community center is an official designated shelter, and an agreement is in place with the County and the Red Cross. No facilities in the City are designated as tornado safe rooms capable of withstanding 250 MPH winds. Public service providers for the City of Bussey are as follows: Water: City of Bussey, Mahaska County Rural Water Sewer: City of Bussey Electric: MidAmercian Energy Natural Gas: MidAmercian Energy Internet and Phone: Windstream, cable and wireless providers Ambulance: Clay Township Rescue Service; Knoxville Hospital Public notifications: Knoxville Journal Express Sanitation: Waste Management Civic organizations: VFW, Little League, park board, two church groups, library board 3.2.8: NFIP Participation Bussey participates in the NFIP Program. The CID# is 190710#. The City has been in the program since May 2010. There are no policies in force, have been no claims, and there are no repetitive loss properties. The City has a digital FIRM map (see next page). Notice that only a small agricultural area of town is included in the mapped flood hazard area. 3.2.9: Planning Capabilities and Status In 2004, the City of Bussey completed a local hazard mitigation plan. It was not submitted to FEMA for approval. Twelve individuals from the City and surrounding areas participated in the planning process and served on a planning team. The plan was adopted in December 2004 and was reviewed as part of the creation of this multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation plan. The main hazards considered in that plan were: structural fires, severe thunderstorms, severe winter storms, hazardous materials incidents, straight-line winds, tornadoes, drought, flooding, earthquakes, and terrorism. The plan listed four goals and approximately 20 mitigation projects that were planned for the next several years, many of which have been completed. Other recent and active planning capabilities include an adopted and practiced Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. There is a Red Rock Dam and Saylorville Dam Emergency Response Plan adopted by the County and housed at the County EMA. Bussey would not be directly affected by dam failure but would be impacted by re-routed traffic. River flooding of the Des Moines River to the east in Mahaska County has caused traffic to be re-routed through Bussey for a week. Figure 3.12: FIRM Map for Bussey (not an official map – from County GIS only)


Page 3.32

Other planning and training efforts include: Full review of ordinances to include mitigation issues addressed since 2004. Initiation of tree trimming ordinance, snow removal ordinance, and street drainage ordinance. Fire/EMS Department has adopted or completed Standard Operating Guidelines, minimum training standards

for firefighting members, Terrorism Awareness training, HAZMAT Operations training, and a Quality Care Improvements Program.

City is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Law enforcement has adopted or completed Terrorism Awareness training, Weapons of Mass Destruction

training, and HAZMAT Operations training. Local storm spotters are trained and dispatched. The City has a building code in place. The City has continued enforcement of a nuisance ordinance and a debris management plan. Mutual aid agreements are on file for emergency services. 3.2.10: Current Mitigation Actions


Page 3.33

The planning task force created to develop the local HMP and EOP has been active in implementing many of the mitigation actions that have been completed in Bussey in the past eight or more years, both in implementing planning efforts outlined above or in developing mitigation projects and programs shown in the following table. The town of Bussey participates in many mitigation actions. The following table describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive. Table 3.21: Bussey Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions


Mitigation Action

Status

Notes En

ergy

Fai

lure

Thun

ders

torm

, Lig

htni

ng

Win

dsto

rm

Seve

re W

inte

r Sto

rm

Com

mun

icat

ions

Fai

lure

Extre

me

Hea

t

Hai

lsto

rm

Torn

ado

Flas

h flo

od

Dro

ught

Pipe

line

Tran

s. In

cide

nt

Stru

ctur

al fi

re

Active fire department in town Active Good membership and new fire station, several vehicles

X X X X X X X X X

Implement or improve upon mutual aid agreements

Ongoing Has been ongoing effort since 2005

X X X X X X X X X X



X X X X X X X X

Initial community briefings immediately after events

Ongoing Leaders in place, working with EMA

X X X X X X X X X X

Install hazard signs in area campgrounds, parks, and open spaces

Complete Parks have appropriate signage

X X X X X



Ask FEMA to complete floodplain maps or to update maps

Complete Digital maps are completed, on county website/GIS

X X X

Assure local plans are in place and current

Underway City leaders identify this as completed – see plan list


Backup jurisdictional files and records – store in alternative locations

Ongoing City has location and protocol X X X X X X X X X

Develop snow removal policies Complete Policies in place, enforced X Enforce burning restrictions Ongoing As necessary, fire/sheriff

supporting X

Inspect water lines Ongoing Mahaska Rural Water X X X X X Install and update anti-virus software

Ongoing County offices are up to date

Install speed limit signs Complete Adequate throughout county Hire certified flood manager, provide training

Complete, ongoing


X

Make all public facilities handicap accessible

Complete Current city buildings are modern

X X X X X X X X


Ongoing Provided adequately by Bussey Fire Dept

X X

Establish neighbor watch program for vulnerable populations during events

Ongoing City residents and leaders know the needs and are considerate of them


Promote tree and vegetation maintenance on private

Ongoing City does this through mailings and council

X X X X X X X


Page 3.34

Dozens of actions are being undertaken in Bussey either by the City or by partnering agencies, such as, but not limited to, County agencies, the Emergency Management Agency, rural water provider, the local fire department, or utility providers. 3.2.11: Outlook and Future Development The population of Bussey is likely to continue a slow decline, as has been the case since 1980. However, with some new investments in the community in the past ten years, such as the new community center, people see the town as progressive. The nucleus of services and businesses ensures the town will not face significant decline.

properties discussions, enforces in extreme situations


Complete As far as known and tested X

Post “no dumping” signs Complete Adequate for current needs X X X X X X Remove dead vegetation on public properties and ROWs

Ongoing City staff handles this as needed

X X X X X X X

Remove unused chemical containers

Ongoing City and County have addressed with DNR help

X X X X X X X X X


Complete, ongoing

City council working with EMA


Annual storm spotter training Ongoing Provided annually by NWS and EMA

X X X X X


Complete Working with energy supplier on this issue

X X X


X X X X X X X X


Complete IDOT supplies X X X X X X X X X X

Purchase new, modernize, and/or harden existing mobile and personal first response communications equipment

Complete Worked on narrow banding, modern towers in the area


Purchase road closure barricades

Complete Held at city shop X X X X X X X X

Purchase SCBA Complete Bussey Fire Dept X X Purchase snow trucks, plows, and sanders

Complete Held at city shop X

Purchase vehicle extrication equipment

Complete Bussey Fire Dept X X X X X

Train first responders, EMTs, firefighters, and emergency disaster responders

Ongoing Bussey Fire Dept, EMTs, city leadership, partnering with county officials


Require burial of utility lines in new development areas

Complete Codified, cooperates with utility provider

X X X


Complete City and Mahaska Rural Water – 2 towers in town

X X X

Upgrade rail lines and crossings Complete Completed by BNSF in 2011 X Develop local debris disposal sites

Complete City owned property managed X X X X X X X

Expand law enforcement capabilities

Ongoing City police, contract with county sheriff, expanded training since 2004

Flush dead end water mains Ongoing Rural water implements X Full review of policy and procedures, and codes to include hazard mitigation

Complete, ongoing

City working on this with EMA support – following adoption of local HMP in 2004 (Page 17-18 of that plan)


Terrorism awareness training Ongoing Provided to fire dept since 2004


Page 3.35

While little new development is likely, it is possible that a few new homes will be built in existing development areas. Conversion of farmland is not likely, nor is development in identified or other possible flood hazard areas. The recent activities of the City indicate that it is likely that the City will implement many of the proposed mitigation actions in this plan.

City of Harvey Located in the east central part of the county in Clay Township in and adjacent to the Des Moines River floodplain with access via paved County Highway 92 and the hard surface 215th Place, Harvey is home to 235 people. A single-track BNSF Railroad travels from northwest to southeast through the town. The town occupies 0.68 square miles, much of which is agricultural land, and much of which is in the mapped flood hazard area. Residential and commercial properties are located primarily just outside of the floodplain but generally on flat land. Approximately 4 miles of mostly gravel and blacktop roads are found in the city, occupying a mostly grid pattern. The town’s mean elevation is 720 feet. Harvey was laid out in September 1876 along what was then the C. R. I. & P. Railroad. Initially it had a population of around 20 people and had very few businesses. In 1903 it was incorporated. Over time the town grew as railroad and agricultural production and use grew. The town has lost a portion of its population in the past fifty years after many years of steady growth. The Harvey area was once a prominent coal mining area and gravel and sand is still extracted from the areas in and near the Des Moines River basin near Harvey. Figure 3.10 on the following page is a base map of Harvey, which shows the town boundaries, street patterns, and key facilities. 3.2.12: Harvey Infrastructure, Services, and Resources The governing body includes one mayor and a five-person city council, and a mayor pro-tem. The council meets monthly at a small older city hall. The City employs a city clerk, superintendent, and other seasonal staff. The City owns and operates a sewer system and a lagoon system just within the town in the flood hazard area. The City contracts with MidAmerican Energy to provide electricity and natural gas services in the city. There is no local production of these utilities. Drinking water is also provided as a Harvey municipal function. There is a 60,000-gallon tower at 408 Tower Drive and a pump station with a capacity of 70 gallons per minute is at 605 Central Street. The City maintains a local water utility and covers billing for the water provider. The town is served by the Harvey Fire Department, which is an all-volunteer force of 10 members based in the town of Harvey. The fire department also provides EMS/first response services with an ISO rating of 8. The department is part of a multi-jurisdictional mutual aid compact. Members are trained and participate in drills and exercises. The department owns three vehicles in a building that is rated as “good.” The First Responder Non-transport Medical Response Service and the Clay Township Rescue Service, which offers transport, are paged at the same time through the E911 Center. Harvey contracts with the Sheriff’s Department for law enforcement. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office in Knoxville is the County’s E911 dispatch center. Marion County EMA provides services to the City. Knoxville CSD serves the City and surrounding area from a campus in Knoxville, 10 miles west. The Fiscal Year 2010 100% valuations for Harvey were $4.1 million for residential properties, $0.2 million for agricultural property, $0.2 million for commercial property, $0.2 million for railroad property, $0.3 million for utilities. Harvey levied a tax rate of $8.01479 for regular property; the extended tax rate was $33.79503. Figure 3.13: Map of City of Harvey

http://www.city-data.com/picfilesc/picc69436.php�


Page 3.36

The City operates the city hall, fire station, a water tower, and the maintenance shop. It is home to two churches. Harvey has one centrally-located warning siren that is manually sounded by the Fire Department upon notification of a warning from Marion County. There are three fixed power generators at critical assets in the town: fire station, water plant, and sewer lift station. Two churches have kitchens that can serve the public during disaster events. None of the structures are officially dedicated and contracted with Red Cross as shelters. No facilities in the City are designated as tornado safe rooms capable of withstanding 250 MPH winds. Public service providers for the City of Harvey are as follows: Water: City of Harvey Sewer: City of Harvey Electric: MidAmercian Energy Natural Gas: MidAmercian Energy Internet and Phone: Windstream, cable and wireless providers Ambulance: Clay Township Rescue Service; Knoxville Hospital Public notifications: Knoxville Journal Express Sanitation: Waste Management Civic organizations: Limited within the city 3.2.13: NFIP Participation


Page 3.37

Harvey participates in the NFIP Program. The CID# is 190455#. The City has been in the program since November 2007. There is one policy in force, there has been one claim of $3,005, and there are no repetitive loss properties. The City has a digital FIRM map. Residential, open space, and agricultural areas, along with the city’s sewer lagoons, are located in the flood plain. Figure 3.14: FIRM Map for Harvey (not an official map – from County GIS only)

3.2.14: Planning Capabilities and Status The City of Harvey completed and adopted an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. There is a Red Rock Dam and Saylorville Dam Emergency Response Plan adopted by the County and housed at the County EMA. Harvey would be directly affected by these hazards and the plans to address them. Other planning and training efforts include:


Page 3.38

City is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Local storm spotters are trained and dispatched. The City has a limited flood mitigation plan in place. The City has continued enforcement of a nuisance ordinance and a flood plain ordinance. Mutual aid agreements are on file for emergency services. 3.2.15: Current Mitigation Actions The town of Harvey participates in many mitigation actions. The following table describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive. Table 3.22: Harvey Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions


Mitigation Action

Status

Notes Th

unde

rsto

rm/li

ghtn

ing

Win

dsto

rm

Seve

re w

inte

r sto

rm

Com

mun

icat

ions

failu

re

Ener

gy fa

ilure

Extre

me

heat

Hai

lsto

rm

Torn

ado

Dam

failu

re

Riv

er fl

ood

Flas

h flo

od



X X X X

Check and test wells Ongoing City employee checks regularly X X Develop/implement watershed studies and plans for possible flood prone areas

Ongoing Soil Conservation group has been working in area watershed

X X X

Develop snow removal policies Complete Policies in place, enforced X Develop/maintain hazardous materials inventories and list of facilities with hazardous materials


X X X



X X


Complete Surface and underground sources identified and studied

Inspect water lines Ongoing City employee X X Install speed limit signs Complete Adequate throughout county Make all public facilities handicap accessible


X X X X X X X


Ongoing Provided adequately by Fire Dept

Maintain sandbags in dry storage Complete County sheds have modest supply, supplies of sand in the area

X X X


Complete As far as known and tested X

Post “no dumping” signs Ongoing Adequate for current needs X X X X X X X Remove dead vegetation on public properties and ROWs

Ongoing City employees X X X X X X X X


Complete, ongoing

City council working with EMA X X X X X X X X X X X


X X X X X

Develop volunteer base Complete City has adequate volunteers – County assists at major events

X X X X X X X X X X


Page 3.39

Dozens of actions are being undertaken in Harvey, either by the City or by partnering agencies, such as, but not limited to, County agencies, the Emergency Management Agency, rural water providers, the local fire department, or utility providers. 3.2.16: Outlook and Future Development The population of Harvey is likely to continue a slow decline, as has been the case since 1980. It is very unlikely that new development will occur in the city. Conversion of farmland is not likely, nor is development in identified or other possible flood hazard areas.

City of Knoxville Located in the central part of the county in Knoxville Township on a generally upland area and accessed by Iowa Highways 5, 92, and 14, Knoxville is home to 7,313 people. A single-track BNSF Railroad travels west-east through the town. The town occupies 4.43 square miles, most of which is developed for residential, commercial, and industrial uses. Public and agricultural uses also occupy many acres. Approximately 75 miles of mostly paved roads are found in the city, occupying a mostly grid pattern. The town’s mean elevation is 903 feet. Knoxville is located some 30 miles southeast of Des Moines. The City is home to the Sprint Car Nationals each August as well as the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame and Museum. Knoxville is also adjacent to Lake Red Rock, the largest lake in Iowa, and provides an abundance of recreational opportunities. The area was originally inhabited by Native Americans of the Sac and Fox tribes. At that time, prairie grass covered the countryside at heights of 8 to 10 feet. In 1835, Dragoons first explored the Des Moines River valley through this area. In 1842, the Sac and Fox Indians signed a treaty to sell lands in central Iowa to the new settlers known as the New Purchase of 1842. By 1843, settlers began moving here. The first Marion County Courthouse was erected three years later. Knoxville was founded in 1845 when Joseph Robinson and James Montgomery, Commissioners from Scott and Wapello County, selected the site for Knoxville and designated it as the county seat. They named Knoxville in honor of General Henry Knox, hero of the Revolutionary War. The City’s main streets are named after Robinson and Montgomery. County surveyor Isaac B. Powers platted part of the town in September 1845, shortly after it was located. Clairborne Hall laid out the remainder of the town in the winter of 1846-47. Additional surveys were made in December 1849 and September 1852. The first sale of lots on October 21, 1845 saw the best sites in town go for $15 to $65. The first survey made the streets 80 feet wide, alleys 10 feet wide, and lots 120’ x 60’, but the third survey changed the width of the streets to 50 feet, and made the blocks 265’


Complete, ongoing


Clear and deepen ditches and ROWs

Ongoing City employees X X X

Replace bridges and culverts Ongoing Ongoing as funds available X X X Flush dead end water mains Ongoing City employee Ask FEMA to complete digital FIRM maps or to update the maps

Complete FIRMS are in place; are being updated with Risk Map now

X X X

Enforce burning restrictions Ongoing In place and enforced X Formally designate and stock key buildings as community shelters

Complete Two church basements/kitchens used

X X X X

Install warning sirens Complete Recently installed X X X X Purchase standby pumps and generators

Complete Fire department has in place X X X X X X X X X

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Knoxville_sign2.jpg�


Page 3.40

x 240’. The first Marion County courthouse was built in 1846 at a cost of approximately $80,000. Knoxville remained an unincorporated village until 1853, when a movement for incorporation began. A judicial order was issued after an election in which 64 votes were cast in favor of incorporation, with 4 votes against. Knoxville was duly incorporated as a City in 1855. Knoxville is also the birthplace of the Iowa State flag, designed by Dixie Cornell Gebhardt, and adopted by Iowa’s General Assembly in 1921. The U.S. Patent Office issued Mrs. Cornell a copyright for the flag in 1921. The base map of Knoxville on the following page shows the town boundaries, street patterns, and key facilities. 3.2.17: Knoxville Infrastructure, Services, and Resources The City of Knoxville operates under a Council-Manager form of government. The City is governed by a mayor and five (5) city council members, all elected at-large. The Mayor serves a two-year term, and the City Council Members serve four-year terms. The mayor and city council employ a professional City Manager, who is charged with managing the day-to-day activities of the City, and executing the policy direction of the Mayor and Council. The City’s public service responsibilities include: (i) administration & finance, (ii) engineering, (iii) streets, (iv) wastewater, (v) cemetery, (vi) police, (vii) fire & rescue, (viii) parks & recreation, (ix) planning, (x) code enforcement, (xi) library, and (xii) a municipal airport. City department directors include a Public Works Director/City Engineer, a Zoning Administrator, Chief of Police, Fire Chief, Recreation Director, Library Director, and City Clerk. Each of the functional service areas shown here fall under the realm of a particular department director. The City has a $7 million annual budget, and the fiscal year runs July 1 to June 30 each year. The City employs approximately fifty-five (55) full-time personnel. The City relies heavily on its various boards and commissions, which are comprised of citizen volunteers. These include the Planning & Zoning Commission, Board of Adjustment, Airport Commission, Library Board, Low Rent Housing Board, Recreation Commission, Senior Citizen Board, and the Civil Service Board. Knoxville’s water system is managed by the Knoxville Water Works, which is an independent quasi-public organization. Local wells and a local water plant provide the water used in the system for the community. Water towers are located strategically in the city. Wastewater collection and treatment is a City function. The collection system covers the entire city and dumps sewage into a treatment plant at 1703 East Pleasant Street. Effluent is properly disposed in a stream northeast of the city. The City has regular inspections of lines, including occasional televising. The system is jetted every year. Parts of town are served by curb and gutter with associated underground storm water management. These systems move water out of developed areas to streams and rural areas. The effectiveness of the system in storm water management has not been evaluated, as engineering analysis would be needed. The City Street Department has a strong maintenance effort including a snow removal policy, street maintenance policy, sidewalk replacement policy, tree trimming ordinance, storm sewer maintenance effort, street sweeping, crack sealing, and traffic sign and signal maintenance efforts. Figure 3.15: Map of City of Knoxville


Page 3.41

The town is served by the Knoxville Fire and Rescue Department, which is an all-volunteer force of 35 members based in central Knoxville. The volunteer staff on average dedicates over 1,200 hours in fire, emergency medical services, confined space, HAZMAT, auto extrication, and water rescue annually. Knoxville Fire & Rescue Department responded to 95 fire calls and 1285 EMS calls in 2008. The department is part of a multi-jurisdictional mutual aid compact. Members are trained and participate in drills and exercises. Most firefighters are Firefighter II trained and most EMS personnel are EMT-I or higher certified. Several paid EMTs work during the daytime. The


Page 3.42

department owns six modern vehicles (three fire trucks, two ambulances, and one rescue boat) in a modern station. EMS transport is available and is in partnership with the Knoxville hospital. A total of 15,000 people are served in the primary response area. The Knoxville Police Department, located at the city hall, consists of 13 certified officers and 7 civilian positions, which include one administrative assistant and four full-time and two part-time dispatchers. In addition to providing the traditional municipal police services – administration, supervision, patrol, investigation and community relations – the department operates a communication center for emergency services. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office in Knoxville is the County’s E911 dispatch center. Although the majority of the Department’s enforcement activities and services are conducted within the City’s five square miles, the Department works closely with the Marion County Sheriff Department, Iowa State Patrol, and area police departments. The Department is an active member of the Warren/Marion County Drug Task Force. The Department’s annual operating budget is approximately $1 million. With recent expansion of police facilities; recent updated communication and police equipment; and a replacement program for vehicles, no major law enforcement capital equipment improvements are foreseen for the near future. The Knoxville Police Department has a volunteer force of reserve officers to supplement the full time force. The police department enforces mitigation-related ordinances, such as the snow parking ordinance and speed control. The department has safety information on the City’s website. Marion County EMA provides services to the City. Knoxville CSD serves the City and surrounding area from various campus locations in Knoxville. The Fiscal Year 2010 100% valuations for Knoxville were $230 million for residential properties, $0.5 million for agricultural property, $55 million for commercial property, $9.5 million for industrial property, $0.8 million for railroad property, and $8.5 million for utilities. Knoxville levied a tax rate of $15.79450 for regular property; the extended tax rate was $41.57474. The City operates the city hall/police station, fire station, water towers, water and sewer plants, library, community and senior center, the Knoxville Airport, and the maintenance shop. Knoxville is home to several banks, grocery stores, large retailers, medical and construction material supply stores, gas stations/convenience stores, childcare facilities, and churches. Knoxville Hospital and Clinics serves the community and has developed its own mitigation strategy elsewhere in this plan. Knoxville has several warning sirens that are manually sounded by the Fire Department upon notification of a warning for Marion County. Information is not available as to which assets that have fixed power generators. Critical government buildings, medical facilities, nursing homes, and designated shelters, including churches with kitchens, should have backup power. Several churches, schools, and community buildings have kitchens that can serve the public during disaster events. A few shelters are designated with Red Cross as shelters. No facilities in the city are designated as tornado safe rooms capable of withstanding 250 MPH winds. The City website is www.discoverknoxville.com, which has community details, meeting information, and viewable code of ordinances. Public service providers for the City of Knoxville are as follows: Water: Knoxville Water Works Sewer: City of Knoxville Electric: MidAmercian Energy Natural Gas: Alliant Energy Internet and Phone: Windstream, cable and wireless providers Ambulance: Knoxville Fire and Rescue; Knoxville Hospital Public notifications: Knoxville Journal Express



Page 3.43

Sanitation: Waste Management Civic organizations: Lions, Chamber of Commerce, Red Cross, homeowner’s association, veterans groups,

Salvation Army, and others 3.2.18: NFIP Participation Knoxville participates in the NFIP Program. The CID# is 190603#. The City has been in the program since December 1977. There are 3 policies in force, there have been no claims, and there are no repetitive loss properties. The City has a completed digital FIRM map (below). A few residential lots, some open space, parts of industrial lots, a church property, and agricultural land are located in the special flood hazard area (SFHA). Figure 3.16: FIRM Map for Knoxville (not an official map – from County GIS only)

3.2.19: Planning Capabilities and Status


Page 3.44

Knoxville has been involved in many planning efforts and has the staff to implement and improve plans. The City of Knoxville completed and adopted an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. There is a Red Rock Dam and Saylorville Dam Emergency Response Plan adopted by the County and housed at the County EMA. Knoxville would be indirectly affected by dam failure due to traffic rerouting through the city and inability for responders in the city to reach other destinations north and east of town. Other planning and training efforts include: Comprehensive plan has been in place since 1999. A capital improvements plan is in progress. An economic development plan is in progress. City is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Local storm spotters are trained and dispatched. The City has continued enforcement of a zoning ordinance and modern zoning map, building codes, nuisance

ordinance, subdivision ordinance, tree trimming ordinance, a (limited) drainage ordinance, site plan review requirements, storm water ordinance, snow removal ordinance, and a flood plain ordinance.

Mutual aid agreements are on file for emergency services. Staffing and committees address the following: zoning, building and site plan review, NFIP regulation, NFIP

CRS (limited), NWS Storm Ready, land use program, public education and awareness program, tree trimming program (cooperatively with utility providers), and historic preservation planning and awareness.

Flood plain maps have been updated in the past five years as has a flood insurance study. Other city leadership includes a floodplain administrator, zoning administrator, economic development director,

engineer, building inspector, and part-time GIS specialist. 3.2.20: Current Mitigation Actions The town of Knoxville participates in many mitigation actions. The following table describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive. Table 3.23: Knoxville Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions


Mitigation Action

Status

Notes Thun

ders

torm

/ligh

tnin

g

Win

dsto

rm

Seve

re w

inte

r sto

rm

Ener

gy fa

ilure

Extre

me

heat

Com

mun

icat

ions

failu

re

Hai

lsto

rm

Flas

h flo

od

Torn

ado

Fixe

d H

AZM

AT

Dro

ught

Pipe

line

trans

. inc

iden

t Availability of cable or satellite with weather advisory overrides

Complete Now providing local and cable/satellite channels

X X X X X X X

Establish alert systems for vulnerable populations

Complete City works with EMA, fire/EMS, and hospital



Ongoing Provided by landfill X X X X



X X X X X X X X X X

Install warning sirens Complete 5 located in town, adequate in quality and distribution

X X X X

Reverse E911 – PSAP Ongoing County provides X X X X X X X X X X X Rail and highway safety education programs for youth


Acquire modern chemicals for firefighting

Underway Fire department working on this – in progress

X X

Adopt tree trimming ordinances Complete Part of city enforced code X X X X X X


Page 3.45

Ask FEMA to complete floodplain maps or update maps


X


Underway City leaders identify this as completed – see plan list



Ongoing City has location and protocol

X X X X X X X X X

Business and residential preparedness programs

Ongoing Fire Department provides – could be enhanced using FEMA best practices


Check and test wells Ongoing City water dept checks regularly

X X

Conduct engineering studies on water and sewer plants/systems

Underway City hired engineer, who is providing studies

X X X X X X

Conduct study on possible illegal use of sump pumps

Underway In progress with engineer and city staff

X X

Develop/implement watershed studies and plans for possible flood prone areas


X

Develop electronic directory of local and other resources

Ongoing City website, EMA website, Sheriff leads this process


Develop snow removal policies Complete Policies in place, enforced X Develop/maintain hazardous materials inventories and list of facilities with hazardous materials


X X X X



X

Enforce burning restrictions Ongoing As necessary, fire/police supporting

X X

Enforce multi-family housing extinguisher laws

Ongoing Considering adoption of International Residence Codes

X X

Formally designate and stock post-disaster community shelters (food and lodging)

Complete, ongoing

Collaborating with EMA & County, which leads this process and signs contracts

X X X X X X X X X X


Complete City is active member of Iowa League of Cities


Implement zoning ordinances Ongoing In place – updated and reviewed often

X X X X X X X X X

Inspect water lines Ongoing Knoxville Water Works X X X X X Install and update anti-virus software

Ongoing City offices are up to date X X X X

Install speed limit signs Complete Adequate throughout city Make all public facilities handicap accessible


X X X X X X X X X X

Special needs/oxygen user registration program

Ongoing Fire department X X X X X X

Subdivision ordinances to address hazard interface areas

Complete City enforces – may need to review to include mitigation

X X X X X X X X X


Ongoing Provided adequately by City fire department

X

Encourage private insurance purchase

Ongoing Local insurance agents, FEMA NFIP, City limited role

X X X X X X X X X X

Establish neighbor watch program for vulnerable populations during events



Lightning protection of tall buildings and towers

Complete Complete for City buildings X X X

Promote tree and vegetation maintenance on private properties

Ongoing City does this through mailings and council discussions, enforces in

X X X X X X


Page 3.46

extreme situations Remove asbestos from public buildings

Underway In progress at this time X

Repair structurally weak homes Ongoing NSP housing program, city and private party investments

X X X X X X X X X

Develop soil erosion stabilization projects

Ongoing NRCS/Soil and Water Conservation groups, City riprap work as needed

X

Install backflow devises Ongoing Knoxville Water Works X X X Remove dead vegetation on public properties and ROWs


X X X X X X X X X



X X X X X X X X X

Tree planting programs on City property and ROW areas

Underway New policy adopted in 2010 X X X X


X X X X X

Create a continuity of operations and succession plan

Underway City working on it now – in progress


Develop/implement a extreme heat medical response plan

Complete Via fire and EMS dept X


Complete Working with energy supplier on this issue

X X X

Develop search and rescue team Complete, ongoing

Via fire and EMS dept X X X X X X X



X

Maintain a 24-hour EOC Complete City/County partnership X X X X X X X X X Participate in a regional HAZMAT team agreement

Complete, ongoing


X X


Underway Working on narrow banding, modern towers in the area


Purchase thermal imaging camera Complete Fire dept uses as needed X X X X X X X Purchase vehicle extrication equipment

Complete Fire dept uses as needed


Ongoing Knoxville Fire Dept, EMTs, city leadership, partnering with county officials


Require burial of power lines in new development

Complete Codified and enforced by City

X X X X X X X

Construct backup wells for water systems

Complete Knoxville Water Works X X X X X

Demolish abandoned properties Ongoing NSP housing program, city and private party investments

X X X X X X

Improve roads (resurface, pave, widen, etc.)

Ongoing City plans and funds over time

X X

Install water impervious manhole covers

Ongoing City updating with new street work and sewer work

X X

Redundant systems and looping (water, sewer, electric, gas)

Underway In progress – early stages X X X X X

Replace, expand, or improve water and sewer lines


X X X X

Develop local debris disposal sites

Underway In the planning stages X X X X X X X X X

Flush dead end water mains Ongoing Knoxville Water Works X X Install alternative or sustainable storm water control options such as buffer strips, bioswales, and rain gardens

Ongoing Have completed some but more projects are desired

X


Page 3.47

Dozens of actions are being undertaken in Knoxville, either by the City or by partnering agencies, such as, but not limited to, County agencies, the Emergency Management Agency, Knoxville Water Works, the local fire department, law enforcement, civic clubs, or utility companies. 3.2.21: Outlook and Future Development The population of Knoxville is likely to show slow decline over the next ten years, but this really depends on what happens with the former VA facility that was once a major employer but is now empty, which has resulted in population less over the past five years or more. It is likely that modest new development will occur, with much more occurring if a good employer is found for the former VA facility. Conversion of farmland is likely on a modest scale, adjacent to existing development. Development should not be located in identified or other possible flood hazard areas.

City of Melcher-Dallas Located in the southwest part of the county in Dallas Township on an upland ridge with access via paved County Highways G-76 and S-45, Melcher-Dallas is home to 1,288 people. A single-track UP Railroad travels north-south through the town. The town occupies 1.0 square miles, much of which is residential area, surrounded by agricultural land along the fringes of the city. Approximately 10 miles of mostly gravel and blacktop roads are found in the city, occupying a mostly grid pattern. The town’s mean elevation is 945 feet. The area has grown since the mid-1800s with the addition of the railroad and strong agricultural economy. One of the largest mines in Iowa history was near the town of Melcher; in 1919, this one mine produced 187,427 tons of coal and employed 345 people. Melcher-Dallas is the result of the merging of two adjacent towns of approximately the same size, Melcher to the southwest and Dallas to the northeast, in 1986. Both towns were along the railroad that was developed in the 19th Century and were both commercial and residential communities. They shared some resources over time and decided it was best to merge as one town. Today, they each have their own small downtown business area and school buildings. They share most other resources, such as utilities, City government services and staff, and City equipment. The base map of Melcher-Dallas (following page) shows the town boundaries, street patterns, and key facilities. 3.2.22: Melcher-Dallas Infrastructure, Services, and Resources The governing body includes one mayor and a five-person city council, and a mayor pro-tem. The council meets monthly at a modern city hall that includes a fire station and a community center with a kitchen. The City employs a city clerk, deputy clerk, superintendents, police officers, and other seasonal staff. Drinking water is provided by the City via wells located near the city. The City owns and operates a sewer system and a lagoon system just east of town. The City contracts with MidAmerican Energy to provide electricity and natural gas to the town, as there is no local production of these utilities. City ordinances govern the connection and use of water and sewer facilities. The town is served by the Melcher-Dallas Fire Department, which is an all-volunteer force based in the town of Melcher-Dallas. The fire department also provides EMS/first response services. The department is part of a multi-jurisdictional mutual aid compact. The fire and EMS service owns a portable power generator and for the most part modern equipment and vehicles. Members are trained and participate in drills and exercises. Melcher-Dallas has its own four-person police force and contracts with the Sheriff for assistance as needed. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office in Knoxville is the County’s E911 dispatch center. Marion County EMA provides services to the City. The City also has an animal control program and officer. Figure 3.17: Map of City of Melcher-Dallas


Page 3.48

Melcher-Dallas CSD serves the City and surrounding area from two campus areas, with the Elementary School campus in central Dallas and High School in central Melcher. The Fiscal Year 2010 100% valuations for Melcher-Dallas were $33.5 million for residential properties, $185,000 for agricultural property, $1.9 million for commercial property, $0.5 million for railroad property, $1.7 million for utilities. Melcher-Dallas levied a tax rate of $13.85855 for regular property; the extended tax rate was $41.64542.


Page 3.49

The City operates the city hall and police station, fire station, library, senior center, parks, water tower, sewer lagoons (outside of town), and the City maintenance shop. Melcher-Dallas is home to convenience stores/gas stations, a day care facility, a bank, four churches, an outpatient health clinic, and a small senior housing complex with 10 units. Melcher-Dallas has one centrally-located warning siren that is manually sounded by the Fire Department upon notification of a warning for Marion County. There are no fixed power generators at any critical assets in the town. No facilities in the City are designated as tornado safe rooms capable of withstanding 250 MPH winds. The City has its own official website: http://cityofmelcherdallas.com/. Public service providers for the City of Melcher-Dallas are as follows: Water: City of Melcher-Dallas Sewer: City of Melcher-Dallas Electric: MidAmercian Energy Natural Gas: MidAmercian Energy Internet and Phone: Windstream, cable and wireless providers Ambulance: M-D Fire Dept., Knoxville Hospital Public notifications: Knoxville Journal Express Sanitation: Waste Management Civic organizations: American Legion, park board, church groups, library board, Lion’s Club 3.2.23: NFIP Participation Melcher-Dallas does not participate in the NFIP Program according to the State of Iowa Status Book. However, the City has been working on this issue, taking the step of adopting a flood control ordinance in 2011. The City has a completed digital FIRM map (following page). Residential, agricultural, and open space areas are in the flood hazard area (SFHA) of a small stream that travels through the middle of the town from west to east. 3.2.24: Planning Capabilities and Status Recent and active planning capabilities include an adopted and practiced Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. There is a Red Rock Dam and Saylorville Dam Emergency Response Plan adopted by the County and housed at the County EMA. Melcher-Dallas would not be directly impacted by dam failure. Other planning and training efforts include: Plans in place include: flood mitigation assistance plan and EOP with proper ESF formats. Ordinances related to mitigation include: zoning (adopted and recodified in 2003), building code, floodplain

ordinance (2011), subdivisions, tree trimming, nuisance, storm water, sidewalk maintenance, weed control ordinances.

City programs in place include: planning and zoning board, site design review, NFIP CRS (limited – carried out by City insurance carrier), NWS Storm Ready designation, ISO ratings, and mutual aid programs.

Studies in place include: FIRMs and Flood Insurance Study. City is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Local storm spotters are trained and dispatched. Mutual aid agreements are on file for all services. The compact includes jurisdictions in Marion and Warren

(just to the west) Counties. Figure 3.18: FIRM Map for Melcher-Dallas (not an official map – from County GIS only)

http://cityofmelcherdallas.com/


Page 3.50

3.2.25: Current Mitigation Actions The town of Melcher-Dallas participates in many mitigation actions. The following table describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive. Table 3.24: Melcher-Dallas Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions


Page 3.51


Mitigation Action

Status

Notes Th

unde

rsto

rm/L

ight

ning

Win

dsto

rm

Seve

re W

inte

r Sto

rm

Ener

gy F

ailu

re

Extre

me

Hea

t

Hai

lsto

rm

Com

mun

icat

ions

Fai

lure

Torn

ado

Flas

h Fl

ood

Dro

ught

Pipe

line

Tran

s. In

cide

nt



X X X X X X X




Ongoing Provided by landfill





X

Implement zoning ordinances Ongoing In place – some groups see need to include mitigation measures

X X X X X X X X


Ongoing Iowa League of Cities involvement



Complete Surface and underground sources identified and studied

X


Complete City enforces – may need to review to include mitigation

X X X X X X X X


Ongoing Provided adequately by City fire department

X


X

Repair structurally weak homes Ongoing City works with private landowners as funds allow, enforces ordinances

X X X X X X X

Install backflow devises Ongoing City staff works with private homeowners

X X

Post “no dumping” signs Complete Adequate for current needs X X X X X X Adopt a thorough EOP addressing multiple hazards and capabilities including mass casualties plan

Complete, ongoing

City council working with EMA X X X X X X X X X X X


X X X X X


X X X X X X X


Complete IDOT supplies X X X X X X X X


Complete, ongoing


X

Clean sewage lagoons and add riprap

Complete Recent upgrades to system X X

Clear and deepen ditches and ROWs

Ongoing City employees X X X

Construct and/or improve berms and levees

Underway Working on this near the stream in town on limited basis

X

Construct backup wells for water Complete City owns X X X


Page 3.52

Dozens of actions are being undertaken in Melcher-Dallas, either by the municipal government or by partnering agencies, such as, but not limited to, County agencies, the Emergency Management Agency, the local first response departments, or other utility providers. 3.2.26: Outlook and Future Development The population of Melcher-Dallas is likely to continue a slow decline or be very stable. However, the city has been very aggressive more recent in terms of updating ordinances, increasing staff, and investing in projects; people see the town as progressive. The nucleus of services and businesses ensures the town will not face significant decline. While little new development is likely, it is possible that a few new homes will be built in existing development areas. Conversion of farmland is not likely, nor is development in identified or other possible flood hazard areas. The recent activities of the City indicate that it is likely that the City will implement many of the proposed mitigation actions in this plan.

City of Pella Located in the northeast part of the county in Lake Prairie Township on a generally upland area and accessed by Iowa Highway 163 and county highways T-17, T-15, T-14, and G-28, Pella is home to 10,352 people. There are no railroads in the city. The town occupies 6.84 square miles, most of which is developed for residential, commercial, and industrial uses. Public and agricultural uses also occupy many acres. Approximately 70 miles of mostly paved roads are found in the city, occupying a mostly grid pattern. The town’s mean elevation is 878 feet.

systems Construct flood protection projects and water/sewer plants

Complete City owns berm around the lagoons

X

Construct or elevate wastewater lift stations

Complete Located where needed in the city, prevents backup sewer into homes

X X


Ongoing City plans and funds over time X X X

Increase bridge capacity Complete Bridge crossing railroad allows traffic to pass adequately

X X

Replace bridges and culverts Ongoing City plans and funds over time X X X X Replace, expand, or improve water and sewer lines

Ongoing City plans and funds over time X X X X

Flush dead end water mains Ongoing City does twice per year X X Install chain link fences around certain chemical tanks

Complete Adequate for day-to-day protection

X

Install new fire hydrants Complete Done as part of water line replacement in 2005

New or upgraded fire station Complete Built in 1993, modern and large enough for current/projected needs

X X X X X X

Install speed limit signs Complete In place and enforced X X X Install warning sirens Complete Two functional in place X X X X Make all public buildings handicap accessible

Complete All meet standards; no complaints

X X X X X X X X

Purchase fire trucks and ambulances

Complete New ambulance; 6-yr old truck is adequate

X X X X X X X X

Purchase SCBAs Complete 12 units in place and used X X X X X X Purchase thermal imaging equipment for fire department

Complete Equipment in placed and used X X X X X X

Purchase vehicle extrication equipment

Complete Equipment in place and used X X X

Remove dead vegetation on public properties and nuisance areas

Ongoing City mows lots and enforced the codes

X X X X X

Restricted access procedures Ongoing Police enforce as needed X X X X X X X X X X


Page 3.53

Pella is located some 30 miles southeast of Des Moines. The City is home to the numerous amenities related to the town’s Dutch heritage, including windmills, specialty stores, unique lodging, several historic and cultural districts, and entertainment facilities. Pella’s Tulip Time festival is one of the most popular annual attractions in Iowa. Pella is also adjacent to Lake Red Rock, the largest lake in Iowa, and provides an abundance of recreational opportunities The city of Pella was originally laid out under the direction of Henry Peter Scholte and 800 Dutch immigrants in 1847 and named from the Hebrew word meaning “a city of refuge.” The town was incorporated in 1855 and was one of the first areas to have a railroad pass through. The Des Moines Valley Railroad connected Des Moines to Eddyville, Iowa, and allowed the town to grow rapidly and quickly become the dominant city in the county. Railroad and road construction elsewhere allowed some other areas to catch up, but even to this day Pella is by far the largest and most economically robust community of the county, even though much of the County and regional business is done in Knoxville as the county seat. The railroad left the city in the 1990s. The following page includes a base map of Pella, which shows the town boundaries, street patterns, and key facilities. 3.2.27: Pella Infrastructure, Services, and Resources The City of Pella operates under a Council-Mayor form of government. The City is governed by a mayor and six (6) city council members, two elected at-large and four elected by wards. The Mayor and the City Council Members serve staggered four-year terms. The council meets regularly and keeps good public records of minutes. Notifications are kept on the City website, City Cable Channel 12, City newsletters, local newspaper, and postings as appropriate. The City’s public service include: (i) administration & finance, (ii) engineering, (iii) streets, (iv) wastewater, (v) cemetery, (vi) police, (vii) fire & rescue, (viii) parks & recreation, (ix) planning, (x) code enforcement, (xi) library, and (xii) a municipal airport. The City has a full-time City Administrator and dozens of other staff members that oversee and implement the functions of the local jurisdiction. Each of the functional service areas shown here falls under the realm of a particular department director. The City has a $16 million annual budget, and the fiscal year runs July 1 to June 30 each year. The City relies heavily on its various boards and commissions, which are comprised of citizen volunteers. These include the Planning & Zoning Commission, Board of Adjustment, Airport Committee, Library Board, Community Services Board (parks and recreation), Building Code Board of Appeals, Community Development Committee, and the Civil Service Commission. The City manages Pella’s water system. Local wells and a local water plant at 1301 University provide the 1.5 million gallons of water used in the system for the community per day, which includes an estimated 3,925 customers. Total capacity is 3.02 million gallons per day at the treatment plant and 4 million gallons per day at the clear well. Two City water towers providing 750,000 and 1 million gallons respectively are located strategically in

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Vermeer_Mill.JPG�


Page 3.54

the city. The system also includes 78.33 miles of water lines, 579 hydrants, and 1,565 valves. The City contracts with Central Iowa Rural Water to sell water for rural water users in the northeast part of Marion County and other users in the region. Figure 3.19: Map of City of Pella Wastewater collection and treatment is a City function. To handle 1.6 million gallons per day, the City in 1981 built the Sents Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant at the northeast edge of town. There are 1,647 sewer manholes, 76.5 miles of sanitary sewer lines, and four major pumping stations. Effluent is properly disposed in a stream northeast of the city. The City has regular inspections of lines, including occasional televising. The system is


Page 3.55

jetted every year. Several projects are planned for 2012, including pump station #2 upgrades and the construction of a force main and equalization basin. Four sewer stations are located in the city or just outside of the city: #1 (4 Union St.), #2 (east end of Park Lane), #3 (east of 228th Place and south of Thunder Creek), and Howell Station (1068 198th Place). Parts of the town are served by curb and gutter with associated underground storm water management. An estimated 22.4 miles of storm sewers move water out of developed areas to streams and rural areas. There are 653 manholes and 789 catch basins and inlets. The effectiveness of this measure in not putting water onto other properties has not been evaluated. The City Street Department has a strong maintenance effort including a snow removal policy, street maintenance policy, sidewalk replacement policy, monthly bundled brush collection, storm sewer maintenance effort, street sweeping, crack sealing, and traffic sign and signal maintenance efforts. There are 63 miles of streets and 7 miles of alleys in Pella. Pella has a municipal airport located in the southwest part of the city and managed by a private firm in contract with the City. Under the Public Works Department, the airport is administered by the Airport Committee. Pella has its own electric facility and purchases natural gas from Alliant Energy from two pipelines entering from the southeast and southwest respectively. Local electrical supply from coal (25 MW), gas (13 MW), and diesel (28 MW) generation supports 4,700 customers with nearly 200,000 MWh of electricity per year. In 2007, Pella also purchased an ownership share in the Walter Scott Energy Center Unit 4 to provide 10.5 MW of additional backup power. Finally the City has purchased 3.3 MW of wind energy capacity from an Iowa wind farm. The City has several generating stations and substations, as follows: Coal and Gas (main) Plant: 519 Oskaloosa St. Diesel Plant: 1875 Washington St. East/Vermeer Substation: 1108 Vermeer Rd., serves the eastern part of the city and the Vermeer Manufacturing

Company, built in 1997. Power Plant Substation: 515 Huber St., serves the central part of town, the downtown business district, and

Pella Corporation, built in 2001. West Substation: 1011 West 10th St., serves primarily new development areas to the west and south of the city,

including the west/south side of Highway 163. Sub A: 707 ½ East 1st St. Sub B: 708 Monroe St. Sub C: 806 Hazel St. Sub D: 104 South St. Pella Electric has its own list of critical electrical customers that are addressed first in an outage along with information about backup power. Pella has discussed the possibility to close its own electric production or move it to backup status with the proposal in place for hydro power at the Red Rock Dam beginning in 2013. The town is served by the Pella Fire Department and Pella Community Ambulance, which is an all-volunteer force of 27 firefighters and 29 EMTs based in central Pella. The department is part of a multi-jurisdictional mutual aid compact. Members are trained and participate in drills and exercises. Most firefighting members are Firefighter I trained and most EMS personnel are EMT-I or higher certified. Several paid EMTs work during the daytime. EMS transport is available and is in partnership with the Pella Hospital. A total of 15,000 people are served in the primary response area. Pella Fire has ten vehicles, including a rescue boat, an assortment of urban and rural trucks, and three ambulances. In 2010, a fairly typical year, there were 143 calls with an average of 14.3 firefighters responding. Of these, 78 were city calls and 65 were rural calls. Two were mutual aid calls and 30 were responses to vehicle accidents. The City’s website has fire safety and kids information pages; the fire department is active in fire prevention. These services, along with the Police Department, reside in adjacent buildings on Main Street.


Page 3.56

The Pella Police Department, located at 614 Main St., consists of 15 certified officers and several civilian positions, which include six that handle communications. The City also has 5 reserve officers in an active Reserve Organization. In addition to providing the traditional municipal police services – administration, supervision, patrol, investigation and community relations – The department operates a communication center for emergency services. Pella Police Department serves as the E911 dispatch center for the immediate Pella area as a remote service in collaboration with the County. Although the vast majority of the Department’s enforcement activities and services are conducted within the City’s six-plus square miles, the Department works closely with the Marion County Sheriff Department, Iowa State Patrol, and area police departments. The police department enforces mitigation-related ordinances, such as the snow parking ordinance and speed control. Marion County EMA provides services to the City. Pella CSD serves the City and surrounding area from various campus locations in Pella. The private Central College occupies approximately 160 acres in the southwest part of the city. The Fiscal Year 2010 100% valuations for Pella were $505.7 million for residential properties, $3.2 million for agricultural property, $86.8 million for commercial property, $36.7 million for industrial property, and $4.8 million for utilities. Pella levied a tax rate of $10.20 for regular property; the extended tax rate was $32.39755. The City operates the city hall/police station, fire station, water towers, water and sewer plants, library, community and senior center, the Pella Airport, water and sewer plants, electric power facilities, and the maintenance shop. Pella owns a large indoor-outdoor aquatic center, art center, athletics facilities, and 14 public parks. The maps on the next few pages show some of these key assets. Pella is home to several banks, several grocery stores, large retailers, medical and construction material supply stores, gas stations/convenience stores, childcare facilities, and churches. Pella Regional Health Center serves the community and has developed its own mitigation strategy in this plan. Pella has several warning sirens that are manually sounded by the Fire Department upon notification of a warning from Marion County. Locations include: W. 16th St./Fifield Road, Bruce Ln./W. 4th, Orchard/Monroe St., 240th/Vermeer Road, Caldwell Park, Water Treatment plant, and 2501 Bos Landen Drive and 825 Broadway. Back-up power is provided to numerous facilities including but not limited to: Pella Community Ambulance (604 Main St.), Pella Fire (610 Main), Pella Police (614 Main), Pella Regional Health Center (404 Jefferson St.), Jefferson Place (413 Jefferson St.), Comfort House (505 Union Street), Vermeer Corporate Office (1210 Vermeer Rd.), Scholte Hall (310 Broadway), Central College Physical Plant (812 University), Graham Hall at Central College (301 Broadway), Central Market at Central College (415 Broadway), the wastewater treatment plant (2269 Illinois Rd.), sewer lift stations, water towers, and water pump stations. Several churches, schools, and community buildings have kitchens that can serve the public during disaster events. A few shelters are designated with Red Cross as shelters. No facilities in the city are designated as tornado safe rooms capable of withstanding 250 MPH winds. The City website is www.cityofpella.com, which has community details, meeting information, and viewable code or ordinances.

http://www.cityofpella.com/


Page 3.57

Figure 3.20: Pella Public Facilities Map


Page 3.58

Public service providers for the City of Pella are as follows: Water: City of Pella Sewer: City of Pella Electric: Missouri River Energy Services by agreement with the City of Pella Natural Gas: Alliant Energy Internet and Phone: Windstream, cable and wireless providers Ambulance: Pella Community Ambulance Police and Fire: Pella Police and Pella Fire Departments Public notifications: Pella Chronicle Sanitation: Midwest Sanitation Civic organizations: Lions, Chamber of Commerce, Red Cross, Rotary, homeowner’s association, veterans

groups, Salvation Army, and others Figure 3.21: Pella Park and Recreational Facilities Map 3.2.28: NFIP Participation Pella participates in the NFIP Program. The CID# is 190837#. The City has been in the program since January 2007. There are 2 policies in force, there have been two claims totaling $4,655, and there are no repetitive loss properties. The City has a completed digital FIRM map (next page). A few residential lots, some open space, some City property, and agricultural land areas are located in the SFHA.


Page 3.59

Figure 3.22: FIRM Map for Pella (not an official map – from County GIS only)

3.2.29: Planning Capabilities and Status Pella has been involved in many planning efforts and has the staff to implement and improve plans. The City of Pella completed and adopted an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. There is a Red Rock Dam and Saylorville Dam Emergency Response Plan adopted by the County and housed at the County EMA. Pella would be indirectly affected by dam failure due to traffic rerouting through the city and inability for responders in the city to reach other destinations south of town. Other planning and training efforts include: Comprehensive plan has been in place since 2007 and was reviewed as part of this plan. It includes a land use

plan and transportation plan. A capital improvements plan is in use for the next five years. City is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Local storm spotters are trained and dispatched.


Page 3.60

The City has continued enforcement of a zoning ordinance (including landscaping ordinance), building codes (2003 IRC, 2009 IBC), nuisance ordinance, subdivision ordinance, tree trimming ordinance, site plan review requirements, storm water ordinance, snow removal ordinance, and a flood plain ordinance.

Mutual aid agreements are on file for emergency services. Staffing and committees address the following: zoning, building and site plan review, NFIP regulation, NFIP

CRS (limited), land use program, public education and awareness program, tree trimming program (cooperatively with utility providers), and historic preservation planning and awareness.

Other city leadership includes a building code official, zoning administrator, development planner, public works office, building inspector, and GIS specialist.

3.2.30: Current Mitigation Actions Pella is the county’s largest and most aggressive city; it participates in many mitigation actions. The following table describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive. Table 3.25: Pella Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions


Mitigation Action

Status

Notes Th

unde

rsto

rm/li

ghtn

ing

Win

dsto

rm

Seve

re w

inte

r sto

rm

Ener

gy fa

ilure

Extre

me

heat

Com

mun

icat

ions

failu

re

Hai

lsto

rm

Flas

h flo

od

Torn

ado

Fixe

d H

AZM

AT

Con

vent

iona

l ter

roris

m

Pipe

line

trans

. inc

iden

t



X X X X X X X

Establish alert systems for vulnerable populations

Complete City works with EMA, fire/EMS, and hospital


Improve public awareness of hazard risks – dispense info about key hazards – written and presentation instruments

Ongoing EMA, City Police and Fire, City, city website


Increase public awareness on household hazardous materials

Ongoing Provided by landfill X X X X X




Install hazard signs in area campgrounds, parks, and open spaces

Ongoing City at public assets – should review these for comprehensiveness

X X X X X X X

Install siren warning systems Complete 8 located in town, adequate in quality and distribution

X X X X

Promote/provide tornado safe room design education for builders and developers

Ongoing City working on this issue already – initial stages

X X X X


Ongoing Provided by local schools and law enforcement

Adopt building codes to address various natural hazards

Complete Adopted 2012 codes, currently 03IRC, 09IBC, and 08NEC

X X X X X X

Adopt current building codes for seismic retrofitting—to make structures earthquake resistant

Complete Load path connection based building codes

Adopt manufactured home development storm shelter ordinances

Ongoing City adopted ordinances with proper enforcement

X X X X

Adopt tree trimming ordinances Complete Part of city enforced code X X X X X X Ask FEMA do complete or updated floodplain maps


X


Page 3.61

Assure jurisdictional plans are in use and current

Complete City leaders identify this as completed – see plan list


Backup jurisdiction files and records—store in alternate locations

Ongoing City has location and protocol

X X X X X X X X X X




Check and test water wells (clean when needed)

Ongoing City water dept checks regularly

X X X


Ongoing City hired engineer, who is providing studies

X X X X X X


Complete Soil Conservation group has been working in area watershed

X


Ongoing City website, EMA website, Sheriff leads this process


Develop/enforce snow removal policies

Ongoing Policies in place, enforced X



X X X X X

Discourage/prohibit development in flood plain areas – join or continue participation in the NFIP

Ongoing NFIP member, Flood plain ordinance

X

Enforce OSHA’s regulations on hazardous materials

Ongoing City and most manufacturers have teams

X X


X X

Formally designate and stock community post-disaster shelters (food and lodging – support of Red Cross or others)

Ongoing Collaborating with EMA & County, which leads this process and signs contracts



Ongoing IABO member X X X X X X X X X X X X

Implement/update and enforce zoning ordinances

Ongoing In place – updated and reviewed often

X X X X X X X X X

Investigate alternative water sources for fire suppression

Ongoing City has wells and access to rural water and dry hydrants

X X X

Inspect water lines Ongoing Pella Water Works X X X X X Install and/or update anti-virus software

Ongoing City offices are up to date X X X X

Install speed limit signs Ongoing Adequate throughout city Make all public facilities handicap accessible

Ongoing Current city buildings are modern


Map past chemical contamination sites

Complete As far as known, city and industries and IDNR have information

X X X X X

Promote good landscaping practices among property owners

Ongoing City code enforcement, neighborhood associations, chamber, etc.

X X X X X X X

Restricted access procedures Underway Working on code and procedures

X X X X X X X X X


Ongoing Fire department X X X X X X X


Ongoing FEMA flood zone ordinance also included

X X X X X X X X X X

Acquire and elevate structures located in floodplain areas

Ongoing Part of subdivision regulations, no existing structures need elevated

X

Encourage citizen purchase/use of smoke detectors

Ongoing New construction building code required

X

Encourage private insurance purchase

Ongoing Local insurance agents, FEMA NFIP, City limited

X X X X X X X X X X


Page 3.62

role Establish neighbor watch programs for vulnerable populations during winter storms, extreme heat, etc.




Ongoing Complete for City buildings X X X

Maintain sandbags in dry storage Complete Empty bags and sand available, limited number of sandbags prepared

X X


Ongoing City does this through mailings and council discussions, enforces in extreme situations

X X X X X X


Ongoing In progress at this time X X

Repair structurally weak homes/weatherization

Ongoing City and private party investments, neighborhood associations

X X X X X X X X X

Seminars and demonstrations on retrofitting (site visits)

Ongoing City, college, area community college

X X X X X


Ongoing NRCS/Soil and Water Conservation groups, City riprap work as needed

X

Remove dead vegetation on public properties and nuisance areas


X X X X X X X X X



X X X X X X X X

Tree planting programs on public property and ROW

Ongoing New policy adopted in 2010 X X X X

Adopt a thorough emergency operations plan (EOP) addressing multiple hazards and capabilities including mass casualties plan

Complete City working with EMA X X X X X X X X X X X X

Annual storm spotter training Ongoing Provided by EMA and NWS X X X X X Create continuity of operations & succession plan for jurisdiction

Complete City working on it now – in progress


Develop/implement an extreme heat event medical response plan

Ongoing Via fire and EMS dept X


Ongoing Working with energy supplier on this issue

X X X

Develop search and rescue teams Ongoing Via fire and EMS dept X X X X X X X X Develop/update/publicize city evacuation plans

Ongoing City, police, fire, local industry

X X X X

Develop volunteer base – trained and stand-by groups

Ongoing Continually working on this issue with local groups


Emergency response guidebooks in all emergency vehicles

Complete Installed and funded by IDOT

X X X X X X X X X X


Complete Marion Co. Sheriff’s Office X

Establish HAZMAT decontamination sites

Ongoing Hospital, fire dept has access

X

Implement bomb squad program Ongoing State Fire Marshal X Maintain Emergency Operations Center with 24-hour capability

Ongoing City/County partnership X X X X X X X X X


Ongoing Des Moines Fire/HAZMAT X X

Purchase new, modernize, and/or harden existing mobile and personal first response communications equip/systems

Ongoing Working on narrow banding, modern towers in the area – all except ambulance service


Purchase road closure barricades Complete City owns X X X X X X X X X Purchase snow trucks, plows, Complete City street dept owns X X X X


Page 3.63

Dozens of actions are being undertaken in Pella, either by the municipal government or by partnering agencies, such as, but not limited to, County agencies, the Emergency Management Agency, local boards and civic groups, local fire and EMS providers, Pella Cooperative, or other utility companies. 3.2.31: Outlook and Future Development The population of Pella is likely to show continued moderate to rapid growth over the next ten years. It is likely that moderate new development will occur, mostly in new recently platted subdivisions in the northern and southwestern part of town, but some new areas will likely develop also. Conversion of farmland is likely on a modest scale, adjacent to existing development. Development should not be located in identified or other possible flood hazard areas.

sanders Purchase thermal imaging system for fire department

Complete Fire dept uses as needed X X X X X X X X

Build highway or rail overpasses to reduce intersection accidents

Complete Highway 163 is bypassed with interchanges

X X X

Bury utility lines in existing and new development

Ongoing Codified and enforced by City, utility company working on burial of existing

X X X X X X X

Clear and deepen ditches on right-of-ways

Ongoing Annually – city staff X X X X


Ongoing Completed several locations X X X

Demolish abandoned properties Ongoing Dangerous buildings defined in ordinance

X X X X X X

Harden public buildings Ongoing City has modern architecturally designed buildings

X X X X X X X X X X



X X


Complete Water towers in place and adequate

X X X X

Promote the construction of private in-home tornado safe rooms

Ongoing City starting on this – could be enhanced

X X X X


Ongoing In progress – early stages X X X X X X

Replace bridges and culverts Ongoing As funds allow X X X Community drills Ongoing Fire, EMS, City, police X X X X X X X X X X X X Develop local debris disposal sites

Complete City owned, IDNR oversight

X X X X X X X X X

Expand law enforcement capabilities

Ongoing City has maximized staff, communications, training, and equipment

X X X X X X

Flush dead end water mains Ongoing Pella Water Works X X Full review of policy, procedure, and codes to include mitigation

Ongoing City working on ordinance updates to include mitigation measures


GIS mapping system implementation and digital hazard maps

Complete In place, need to add certain mitigation maps from this plan to city/county system

X X X X X X X

Install new fire hydrant Ongoing Most replaced as needed X X X X Purchase/install backup fixed power generators and pumps

Ongoing Adding to critical assets as funding allows

X X X X X

Purchase stand-by portable pumps and generators

Ongoing Key agencies own X X X X X X X X

Develop utility critical asset list and contact list

Complete, ongoing

Pella Municipal Utilities X X X


Page 3.64

City of Pleasantville Located in the west central to northwest part of the county in Pleasant Grove Township on an upland ridge with access via paved Iowa Highway 5 and County Highway G-40, Pleasantville is home to 1,694 people. A single-track BNSF Railroad travels from northwest to southeast through the town. The town occupies 1.16 square miles, much of which is residential area, surrounded by agricultural land along the fringes of the city. Approximately 15 miles of mostly paved roads are found in the city, occupying a mostly grid pattern. The town’s mean elevation is 880 feet. Pleasantville was surveyed and established as a town on August 1, 1849 on land then owned by William Wesley Jordan. Previous to the ownership of Mr. Jordan, the land comprising the original town plot of Pleasantville changed hands for one horse and $30. A petition for incorporation was filed in District Court on June 11, 1872 with an election subsequently held in which there were 46 votes in favor and 16 votes against. The completion of the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad Line through Pleasantville in 1879 caused an increase in development and Pleasantville became one of the active business centers in Marion County and the principal shipping point between Knoxville and Des Moines. The earliest population figures available begin in 1900 with 738 residents. The first school was built in the fall of 1847, and in 1868, the school district joined with the Masonic Lodge in building a three story brick building that remained a school facility until 1992. Today, the Pleasantville School district consists of three buildings, an elementary, a middle school, and a high school. The base map of Pleasantville (following page) shows the town boundaries, street patterns, and key facilities. 3.2.32: Pleasantville Infrastructure, Services, and Resources The governing body includes one mayor and a five-person city council, and a mayor pro-tem. The council meets monthly at a modern city hall in the center of the city, on the north side of the town square. The City employs a city clerk, deputy clerk, superintendents, police officers, and other seasonal staff. Drinking water is provided by the City via wells located near the city. The City owns and operates a sewer system and a lagoon system just west of Iowa Highway 5 within the corporate limits. The City contracts with MidAmerican Energy to provide electricity and natural gas to the town. There is no local production of these utilities. City ordinances govern the connection and use of water and sewer facilities. The town is served by the Pleasantville Fire Department, which is an all-volunteer force based in the town of Pleasantville. The fire department also provides EMS/first response services. The department is part of a multi-jurisdictional mutual aid compact. The fire and EMS service owns a portable power generator and for the most part modern equipment and vehicles. Members are trained and participate in drills and exercises. Pleasantville has its own small police force and contracts with the Sheriff for assistance as needed. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office in Knoxville is the County’s E911 dispatch center. Marion County EMA provides services to the City. Pleasantville CSD serves the City and surrounding area from two campus areas, both adjacent to one another in the western part of the town. The Fiscal Year 2010 100% valuations for Pleasantville were $55 million for residential properties, $840,000 for agricultural property, $7.4 million for commercial property, $0.6 million for industrial property, $0.2 million for railroad property, $2.1 million for utilities. Pleasantville levied a tax rate of $10.34086 for regular property; the extended tax rate was $33.5528.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Pleasantville_Iowa_20080111_Sign.JPG�


Page 3.65

The City operates the city hall and police station, fire station, library, senior center, parks, water tower, sewer lagoons, and the City maintenance shop. Figure 3.23: Map of City of Pleasantville Pleasantville is home to convenience stores/gas stations, a day care facility, a bank, several churches, an outpatient health clinic, and a small senior housing complex. Pleasantville has one centrally located warning siren that is manually sounded by the Fire Department upon notification of a warning for Marion County. There are no fixed power generators at any critical assets in the town. Some church kitchens that can serve the public during disaster events. No facilities in the City are designated as tornado safe rooms capable of withstanding 250 MPH winds.


Page 3.66

Public service providers for the City of Pleasantville are as follows: Water: City of Pleasantville Sewer: City of Pleasantville Electric: MidAmercian Energy Natural Gas: MidAmercian Energy; Stubbs Propane (515.848.3154) Internet and Phone: Windstream, cable and wireless providers Ambulance: Pleasantville Fire Dept., Knoxville Hospital Public notifications: Pleasantville/Marion County News Sanitation: Mesecher Sanitation (515.848.3536), Cowden Sanitation (515.848.3731) Civic organizations: church groups, and library board City website: http://discoverpleasantville.com/. Expansive city information and the code of ordinances are found on the website. 3.2.33: NFIP Participation Pleasantville is not participating in the NFIP Program according to the State of Iowa Status Book. Its CID # is 190838 and its initial FIRM was identified in 2007. The current effective date is 11/16/07. The City has a completed digital FIRM map (following page). A small stream flows through the west and southwest part of town, mostly impacting agricultural areas and the sewer lagoon area. Figure 3.24: FIRM Map for Pleasantville (not an official map – from County GIS only)

http://discoverpleasantville.com/


Page 3.67

3.2.34: Planning Capabilities and Status Recent and active planning capabilities include an adopted and practiced Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. There is a Red Rock Dam and Saylorville Dam Emergency Response Plan adopted by the County and housed at the County EMA. Pleasantville would not be directly impacted by dam failure but would be subject to traffic rerouting if Highways 92 and 14 are closed at some point. Other planning and training efforts include: Plans in place include: flood mitigation assistance plan and EOP with proper ESF formats. Ordinances related to mitigation include: zoning, building code, subdivisions, tree trimming, nuisance,

drainage/sanitary sewer sidewalk maintenance, solid waste, and weed control ordinances. City programs in place include: planning and zoning board, site design review, a hazard awareness program,

ISO ratings, LEPC, and mutual aid programs. City is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Local storm spotters are trained and dispatched. Mutual aid agreements are on file for all services. The compact includes jurisdictions in Marion and Warren

(just to the west) Counties. 3.2.35: Current Mitigation Actions The town of Pleasantville participates in many mitigation actions. The following table describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive. Table 3.26: Pleasantville Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions


Mitigation Action

Status

Notes Th

unde

rsto

rm/L

ight

ning

Win

dsto

rm

Seve

re W

inte

r Sto

rm

Ener

gy F

ailu

re

Extre

me

Hea

t

Hai

lsto

rm

Com

mun

icat

ions

Fai

lure

Torn

ado

Flas

h Fl

ood

Dro

ught

Pipe

line

Tran

s. In

cide

nt



X X X X X X X



Install warning siren systems Complete Modern, located appropriately X X X X Increase public awareness of household hazardous materials

Ongoing Provided by landfill

Acquire modern chemicals and equipment for firefighting

Complete Fire Dept is in good supply X X

Develop/maintain hazardous materials inventories and list of critical facilities with hazardous materials




X


X X X X X X X X


Ongoing Iowa League of Cities involvement


Install and update anti-virus software

Ongoing City offices are up to date X X X


Page 3.68

Over a dozen actions are being undertaken in Pleasantville, either by the municipal government or by partnering agencies, such as, but not limited to, County agencies, the Emergency Management Agency, rural water providers, the local fire department, or other utility providers. 3.2.36: Outlook and Future Development The population of Pleasantville is likely to continue a slow increase. Some new development is likely, mostly in infill areas of existing neighborhoods. Conversion of farmland is likely on a small scale, but development is not likely in identified or other possible flood hazard areas. The community will likely develop toward Highway 5 and will include both residential and commercial.

City of Swan Located in the northwest corner of the county in Pleasant Grove Twp in and adjacent to the Des Moines River floodplain with access via paved Coolidge Road just off Highway 316, Swan is home to 72 people. A single-track BNSF Railroad travels from northwest to southeast through the western edge of town. The town occupies 0.65 square miles, much of which is agricultural land, and much of which is in the mapped flood hazard area. Residential properties are located primarily just outside of the floodplain but generally on flat land. Approximately 3 miles of mostly gravel and blacktop roads are found in the city, occupying a mostly grid pattern. The town’s mean elevation is 778 to 821 feet (depending on the source). In 1884 Swan was incorporated and, over time, the town grew as railroad and agricultural production and use grew. The town has lost a portion of its population in the past fifty years after many years of steady growth. Lake Red Rock Wildlife Management Area is located north, east, and southeast of town, with agriculture located to the west and south. The base map of Swan on the next page shows the town boundaries, street patterns, and key facilities.

Install speed limit signs Complete City enforces, adequate signage Annual storm spotter training Ongoing Provided annually by NWS and

EMA X X X X X


Complete IDOT supplies X X X X X X X X


Complete, ongoing


X

Clean sewage lagoons and add riprap

Complete Recent upgrades to system X X

Construct flood protection projects and water/sewer plants

Complete City owns berm around the lagoons

X


Ongoing City plans and funds over time X X X

Road bypass construction projects Complete Highway 5 bypassing developed areas

X


Ongoing City plans and funds over time X X X X

Flush dead end water mains Ongoing City does twice per year X X

http://www.city-data.com/picfilesv/picv38920.php�


Page 3.69

Figure 3.25: Map of City of Swan

3.2.37: Swan Infrastructure, Services, and Resources The governing body includes one mayor and a five-person city council, and a mayor pro-tem. The council meets monthly at a small older city hall. The City employs a city clerk, superintendent, and other seasonal staff. The City contracts with Marion County Rural Water for potable water and has no public central sewer system. Residents have their own septic systems. The City contracts with MidAmerican Energy to provide electricity. There is no natural gas service. Individual property owners in need of home and business heat contract with LP providers and have an above-ground LP tank on their properties. There is no local production of these utilities. Only two roads allow access to the town from outside. One of them, Coolidge Rd., is paved but is in need of repairs. The bridge crossing the railroad just west of town is in very poor condition. The other road from the south (25th Place) is often flooded when Red Rock Lake levels exceed normal pool elevation. A small bridge for a small stream is found in the town on Coolidge Rd, to the east of most of the developed area of town.


Page 3.70

The town is served by the Pleasantville Fire Department, which is an all-volunteer force based in the town of Pleasantville, 6 miles south. The fire department also provides EMS/first response services. The department is part of a multi-jurisdictional mutual aid compact. Members are trained and participate in drills and exercises. Services are paged through the E911 Center in Knoxville. Swan contracts with the Sheriff’s Department for law enforcement. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office in Knoxville is the County’s E911 dispatch center. Marion County EMA provides services to the City. Pleasantville CSD serves the City and surrounding area from a campus in Pleasantville, 6 miles south. The Fiscal Year 2010 100% valuations for Swan were $1.6 million for residential properties, $33,000 for agricultural property, $0.8 million for railroad property, $0.2 million for utilities. Swan levied a tax rate of $5.51593 for regular property; the extended tax rate was $28.72787. The City operates the city hall and a small community building. Swan has no warning siren in use at this time. There are no fixed power generators at critical assets in the town. No other assets are known to have kitchens that can serve the public during disaster events. None of the structures are officially dedicated and contracted with Red Cross as shelters. No facilities in the City are designated as tornado safe rooms capable of withstanding 250 MPH winds. Public service providers for the City of Swan are as follows: Water: Marion County Rural Water Sewer: None – private systems Electric: MidAmercian Energy Natural Gas: None – individual LP tanks Internet and Phone: Windstream, cable and wireless providers Ambulance: Pleasantville Fire and Rescue; Knoxville Hospital Public notifications: Pleasantville/Marion County News Sanitation: Waste Management Civic organizations: Limited within the city 3.2.38: NFIP Participation Pleasantville is not participating in the NFIP Program according to the State of Iowa Status Book. Its CID # is 190398 and its initial FIRM was identified in 2007. The current effective date is 11/16/07. The City has a completed digital FIRM map (next page). Residential, open space, and agricultural areas, along with the city’s sewer lagoons, are located in the flood plain. 3.2.39: Planning Capabilities and Status The City of Swan completed and adopted an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. There is a Red Rock Dam and Saylorville Dam Emergency Response Plan adopted by the County and housed at the County EMA. Swan would be directly affected by these hazards and the plans to address them. Other planning and training efforts include: City is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Local storm spotters are trained and dispatched. Mutual aid agreements are on file for all services.


Page 3.71

Figure 3.26: FIRM Map for Swan (not an official map – from County GIS only)

3.2.40: Current Mitigation Actions The town of Swan participates in many mitigation actions. The following table describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive.


Page 3.72

Table 3.27: Swan Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions Primary Hazards Addressed by Mitigation

Action – Priority Group 1 Mitigation Action

Status

Notes Th

unde

rsto

rm/L

ight

ning

Win

dsto

rm

Seve

re W

inte

r Sto

rm

Ener

gy F

ailu

re

Extre

me

Hea

t

Hai

lsto

rm

Com

mun

icat

ions

Fai

lure

Torn

ado

Flas

h Fl

ood

Dro

ught

Stru

ctur

al fi

re



X X X X X X X


Ongoing Process in place with mayor, clerk, and EMA

X X X X X X X X X X

Adopt tree trimming ordinances Complete In place, enforced as needed and by utilities

X X X X X X

Ask FEMA do complete floodplain maps or to update maps


X



Promote NOAA weather radio – citizen purchase (rebate incentive)

Complete City has worked with EMA – could expand effort

X X X X X X X

Revere E911 program Complete City indicates availability X X X X X X X X X X Increase public awareness of household hazardous materials

Ongoing Provided by landfill X X


Underway In progress with engineer and city staff

X



X

Develop snow removal policies Complete Policies in place, enforced X X Develop/maintain hazardous materials inventories and list of facilities with hazardous materials


X



X

Enforce OSHA’s regulations on hazardous materials

Ongoing City has team to assist with this, most manufacturers have teams

X


X


Complete Iowa League of Cities member X X X X X X X X X X X


X X X X X X X X

Inspect water lines Ongoing Completed by rural water X X X X Install and update anti-virus software

Ongoing City offices are up to date X X

Install speed limit signs Complete City enforces, adequate signage Make all public facilities handicap accessible


X X X X X X X X


Ongoing City code enforcement X X X X X X X X

Restricted access procedures Complete Working on code and procedures X X X X X X X Encourage citizen purchase and use of fire extinguishers and smoke detectors

Ongoing Provided adequately by all fire departments

X

Encourage private insurance Ongoing Local insurance agents, FEMA X X X X X X X


Page 3.73

Dozens of actions are being undertaken in Swan, either by the City or by partnering agencies, such as, but not limited to, County agencies, the Emergency Management Agency, rural water providers, the local fire department, or utility providers. 3.2.41: Outlook and Future Development The population of Swan is likely to continue a slow to moderate decline, as has been the case for many years. It is very unlikely that new development will occur in the city. Conversion of farmland is not likely, nor is development in identified or other possible flood hazard areas.

Clay Township Fire District Located in the east central part of the county, Clay Township, home to Clay Township Fire District, is home to 1,000 people. The township occupies approximately 36 square miles, much of which is agricultural land, and some of which is in the mapped flood hazard area. The township is mostly rural, although several highways pass through it and the town of Harvey and unincorporated town of Tracy are found in the township. The township is governed by elected trustees that manage cemeteries, fire and EMS assets, and other minor assets. Townships have limited power and taxing authority. A map of the township is found on the next page.

purchase NFIP, City limited role Establish neighbor watch program for vulnerable populations during events


X X X X X X X X


Ongoing City does this through mailings and council discussions, enforces in extreme situations

X X X X X X X X

Repair structurally weak homes Underway City works with private landowners as funds allow, enforces ordinances

X X X X X X X X

Install backflow devices Underway Has installed as necessary, not City funded

X

Remove dead vegetation on public properties and ROWs

Ongoing City staff handles this as needed X X X X X X X


Complete Adequate as far as City knows X X X X X X X X


X X X X X


Complete, ongoing


X

Demolish abandoned properties Underway Some key properties handled, other targeted, enforcement in place

X X X X

Flush dead end water mains Ongoing City does twice per year X X Full review of policy, procedure, and codes to include mitigation

Underway Code reviews underway, need to ensure to include mitigation


Contract with a fire/EMS/police service from outside of City

Complete City has contracts with Pleasantville, Sheriff

X X X X X X X X X X


Page 3.74

Figure 3.27: Clay Township Map Source: Marion County E911 Board For the most part, the township would fall under the jurisdiction of Marion County, which is the higher level of local government. However, Clay Township Fire District wanted to develop its own hazard risk assessment and mitigation strategy in order to address unique issue facing this entirely rural fire district. Mitigation projects listed under “Rural Marion County” and “Clay Township Fire” could both be implemented in the township.


Page 3.75

3.2.42: Clay Township Fire District Infrastructure, Services, and Resources The fire station, built in 1995 with an addition in 2010, is found at 313 Woltz Street in Tracy. Twenty-one volunteer firefighters and 10 EMTs serve with 4 trucks. The fire department also provides EMS/first response services. The department is part of a multi-jurisdictional mutual aid compact. Members are trained and participate in drills and exercises. Services are paged through the E911 Center in Knoxville. The County provides emergency management services, law enforcement, public health, and other hazard mitigation-related services. A water tower is found at 195th Avenue and Pierce Drive. Knoxville, Twin Cedars, and Pella Schools serve the township from campuses within 12 miles of anywhere in the township. Clay Township levied a tax rate of $0.9606 for regular property; the extended tax rates that vary by school districts were $30.89084, $27.30815, and $27.80328. The FY 2011 budget was only $35,300 for the township, of which $20,000 was for fire protection. The township has no rural warning sirens in use at this time. There are no fixed power generators at critical assets in the township. No other assets, other than the fire station, are known to have kitchens that can serve the public during disaster events. None of the structures are officially dedicated and contracted with Red Cross as shelters. No facilities in the township are designated as tornado safe rooms capable of withstanding 250 MPH winds. Public service providers for the Clay Township are as follows: Water: Marion County Rural Water, Mahaska County Rural Water, private systems Sewer: None – private systems Electric: MidAmercian Energy, Pella Electric Coop Natural Gas: None – individual LP tanks; some areas served by MidAmerican Energy adjacent to crossing

pipeline and in Tracy (substation a quarter mile north of town) Internet and Phone: Windstream and Qwest, cable, wireless providers Ambulance: Clay Township Fire; Knoxville Hospital, Pella Hospital Public notifications: Knoxville Journal Express, Pella Chronicle Sanitation: Waste Management Civic organizations: Limited within the township 3.2.43: NFIP Participation The township is part of the county’s NFIP participation and FIRM map described and shown in the Marion County section. 3.2.44: Planning Capabilities and Status The Township Fire District participated in the County’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. There is a Red Rock Dam and Saylorville Dam Emergency Response Plan adopted by the County and housed at the County EMA. The township would be directly affected by these hazards and the plans to address them. Several thousand acres of township land would be flooded and bridges and roads would likely be lost, as well as some homes and mining areas. Other planning and training efforts specific to the jurisdiction include: District is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Local emergency plan (adopted in 1995 and updated as needed since). Local storm spotters are trained and dispatched. Mutual aid agreements are on file for all services. ISO insurance rating services implemented.


Page 3.76

3.2.45: Current Mitigation Actions The Clay Township Fire District and related partners participate in many mitigation actions. The following table describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive. Table 3.28: Clay Township Fire District Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions


Mitigation Action

Status

Notes W

inds

torm

Seve

re w

inte

r sto

rm

Thun

ders

torm

/ligh

tnin

g

Ener

gy fa

ilure

Hai

lsto

rm

Com

mun

icat

ions

failu

re

Extre

me

heat

Dam

Fai

lure

Gra

ss a

nd w

ildla

nd fi

re

Dro

ught

Riv

er fl

ood

Torn

ado



X X X X X X X


Ongoing Provided by landfill X X


Ongoing Process in place with EMA and Township Fire/Trustees


Promote NOAA weather radio – citizen purchase (rebate incentives)

Complete District has worked with EMA – could expand effort

X X X X X X



Adopt building codes to address various natural hazards

Complete Limited adoption and enforcement in the district

X X X X X X

Adopt tree trimming ordinances Complete Part of county enforced code X X X X X X X Assure jurisdictional plans are in place and current

Complete At fire dept level adequate

Backup jurisdiction files and records—store in alternate locations

Ongoing District has location and protocol

X X X X X X X





Ongoing County environmental health on individual properties

X X


Ongoing Tracy - hired engineer, who is providing studies

X X X X


Ongoing In progress with engineer and city/county staff

Coordinate with FEMA to implement earthquake program

Ongoing X


Complete Soil Conservation group has been working in area watershed

X X


Ongoing County is NFIP member, Flood plain ordinance

X X


Ongoing NACo and ISAC involvement



X X X X X X X X X

Inspect water lines Ongoing Rural water services X X X X X Install speed limit signs Complete Adequate throughout county Make all public facilities handicap accessible

Ongoing Current public buildings are modern

X X X X X X X X


Page 3.77

Map past chemical contamination sites

Complete As far as known, county and industries and IDNR have information

X X X X X X X X


Ongoing County code enforcement, neighborhood associations, chamber, etc.

X X X X X X X X


Ongoing Fire department X X X X X X

Hire certified flood manager, provide training

Complete, ongoing


X X

Acquire and elevate structure located in floodplain areas

Complete Des Moines River – key assets that can be elevated

X X

Acquire and relocate structure located in floodplain areas

Complete Des Moines River – key assets that can be relocated

X X


Complete Complete for District and other public buildings

X X X X


X X


Ongoing County does this through mailings and board discussions, enforces in extreme situations

X X X X X X X X



Remove underground fuel storage tanks

Complete As far as known

Repair structurally weak homes Ongoing County works with private landowners as funds allow, enforces ordinances

X X X X X X X X X


Ongoing Completed or underway along Des Moines River and tributaries

X

Install backflow devises Ongoing Limited effort on water Post “no dumping” signs Complete Adequate for current needs X X X X X X Remove dead vegetation on public properties and ROWs

Ongoing County, State, and ACE staff handles this as needed

X X X X X X X X X


Complete X X X X X X X X X

Undertake stream modifications Ongoing FEMA, IDNR, IDOT, County S&WCD

X X


Complete, ongoing

EMA administers, writes, and updates, with support of local jurisdictions



X X X X X X

Develop/implement an extreme heat event medical response plan

Ongoing Via fire and EMS dept X


Ongoing Working with energy supplier on this issue

X X


X X X X X X X X X X


Complete IDOT supplies X X X X X X X X X X X

Establish HAZMAT decontamination sites

Complete Local hospitals, fire dept has limited capability



X

Designate a public information officer

Complete EMA, Fire chief X X X X X X X X X X X X


Complete, ongoing


X X X


Page 3.78

Purchase new, modernize, and/or harden existing mobile and personal first response communications equip/systems

Ongoing Working on narrow banding, modern towers in the area


Purchase road closure barricades Complete Fire Dept, County have some X X X X X X X Purchase snow trucks, plows, sanders

Complete In possession and used X

Clear and deepen ditches on ROWs

Ongoing County secondary roads, Clay Twp has limited role

X X X X

Construct and/or improve berms or levees

Complete Limited earthen berms protect critical assets and populated areas only

X X

Construct flood protection projects around water/sewer plants

Complete Water plants protected X X


Complete As needed for unincorporated Tracy

X

Construct or repair dams Complete Current dams meet needs but need regular inspections (Red Rock is inspected often)

X X

Demolish abandoned properties Ongoing Private market taking care of this due to high land demand

X X X X X X X


Complete Red Rock Dam provides major need, but more farm ponds may help with upstream water control

X X X X X

Increase bridge capacity Complete Highway 92 bridge over DM River is updated

X X


Complete Rural water has full supply of towers strategically placed

X X X

Raise grade to eliminate backup flooding

Complete, ongoing

Some key assets have been elevated in Des Moines River valley and tributary

X X

Replace bridges and culverts Complete Highway 92 bridge over DM River and some culverts updated, more needs exist

X X X X X


Complete Unincorporated Tracy X X X X

Community drills Ongoing Township fire dept X X X X X X X X X X X X Develop debris disposal sites Complete County landfill in area, rural

areas can be used for yard waste disposal

X X X X X X X X X

Flush dead end water mains Ongoing Rural water implements X Full review of policy, procedure, and codes to include mitigation

Underway Underway at township fire level


GIS mapping system implementation and digital hazard maps

Ongoing County staffed and active X X X X X X X X X X

Install flood gauges Complete Des Moines River, in use X Investigate and implement alternative energy sources

Ongoing On a limited level X

Dozens of actions are being undertaken in the rural parts of Clay Township (not including Harvey directly) and/or affecting public assets, either by the County government or by partnering agencies, such as, but not limited to, County agencies and boards, the Emergency Management Agency, rural water agencies, rural electric cooperatives, State and Federal landowners, local fire departments, or utility companies. 3.2.46: Outlook and Future Development The population of Clay Township is likely to be stable over time. It is very unlikely that new development will occur in the township on any notable level, although some rural homes and additional mining areas are possible. Conversion of farmland is possible in a few areas; development in identified or other possible flood hazard areas, except for mining, is not likely.


Page 3.79

Indiana Township Fire District Located in the south-central, southeast part of the county, Indiana Township, home to Indiana Township Fire District is home to 726 people. The township occupies 36 square miles, much of which is agricultural land, and some of which is in the mapped flood hazard area. The township is very rural, although several highways pass through it and the unincorporated towns of Attica is found in the township. The county base map at the beginning of the chapter shows the township boundaries, road patterns, and key facilities in relation to the entire county. The township is governed by elected trustees that manage cemeteries, fire and EMS assets, and other minor assets. Townships have limited power and taxing authority. For the most part, the township would fall under the jurisdiction of Marion County, which is the higher level of local government. However, Indiana Township Fire District wanted to develop its own hazard risk assessment and mitigation strategy in order to address unique issue facing this entirely rural fire district. Mitigation projects listed under “Rural Marion County” and “Indiana Township Fire” could both be implemented in the township. 3.2.47: Indiana Township Fire District Infrastructure, Services, and Resources The fire station is found in Attica. This station was nearly destroyed by a tornado several years ago and has not yet been fully restored. Part of the interest of the District in this planning process was to improve the jurisdiction’s standing with FEMA in order to implement mitigation projects that will make the District stronger and more able to resist hazards such as tornadoes. The fire department also provides EMS/first response services. The department is part of a multi-jurisdictional mutual aid compact. Members are trained and participate in drills and exercises. Services are paged through the E911 Center in Knoxville. The County provides emergency management services, law enforcement, public health, and other hazard mitigation-related services. Knoxville and Twin Cedars Schools serve the township from campuses within 12 miles of anywhere in the township. Indiana Township levied a tax rate of $1.62126 for regular property; the extended tax rates that vary by school districts were $31.55150 and $28.46394. The township has no warning siren in use at this time. There are no fixed power generators at critical assets in the township. No other assets are known to have kitchens that can serve the public during disaster events. None of the structures are officially dedicated and contracted with Red Cross as shelters. No facilities in the township are designated as tornado safe rooms capable of withstanding 250 MPH winds. Public service providers for the Indiana Township are as follows: Water: Marion County Rural Water, private systems Sewer: None – private systems Electric: MidAmercian Energy, Chariton Valley Electric Coop, Pella Electric Coop Natural Gas: None – individual LP tanks; some areas served by Alliant Energy adjacent to crossing pipeline Internet and Phone: Windstream and Qwest, cable, wireless providers Ambulance: Indiana Township Fire; Knoxville Hospital Public notifications: Knoxville Journal Express Sanitation: Waste Management Civic organizations: Limited within the township 3.2.48: NFIP Participation


Page 3.80

The township is part of the county’s NFIP participation and FIRM map described and shown in the Marion County section. 3.2.49: Planning Capabilities and Status The Township Fire District participated in the County’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. There is a Red Rock Dam and Saylorville Dam Emergency Response Plan adopted by the County and housed at the County EMA. The township would not be directly affected by these hazards and the plans to address them. Other planning and training efforts include: District is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Local storm spotters are trained and dispatched. Mutual aid agreements are on file for emergency services. 3.2.50: Current Mitigation Actions The Indiana Township Fire District and related partners participate in many mitigation actions. The following table describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive. Table 3.29: Indiana Township Fire District Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions


Mitigation Action

Status

Notes W

inds

torm

Seve

re w

inte

r sto

rm

Thun

ders

torm

/ligh

tnin

g

Ener

gy fa

ilure

Hai

lsto

rm

Com

mun

icat

ions

failu

re

Extre

me

heat

Gra

ss a

nd w

ildla

nd fi

re

Dro

ught

Stru

ctur

al fi

re

Torn

ado



X X X X X X


Ongoing Provided by landfill X X X


Ongoing County environmental health on individual properties

X X X


Ongoing Small towns - hired engineer, who is providing studies

X X X


Ongoing County is NFIP member, Flood plain ordinance


Ongoing NACo and ISAC involvement X X X X X X X X X X X


X X X X X X X X

Inspect water lines Ongoing Rural water services X X X X Remove asbestos from public buildings



X X X X X


Complete IDOT supplies – all three Indiana Twp Fire trucks

X X X X X X X X X X


Complete, ongoing


X X X X


Complete Red Rock Dam provides major need, but more farm ponds may help with upstream water control

X X X X

Flush dead end water mains Ongoing Rural water implements X


Page 3.81

Over a dozen mitigation actions are being undertaken in the rural parts of Indiana Township and/or affecting public assets, either by the County government or by partnering agencies, such as, but not limited to, County agencies and boards, the Emergency Management Agency, rural water agencies, rural electric cooperatives, State and Federal landowners, local fire departments, or utility companies. 3.2.51: Outlook and Future Development The population of Indiana Township is likely to continue a slow decline, as has been the case for many years. It is very unlikely that new development will occur in the township on any notable level. Conversion of farmland is not likely, nor is development in identified or other possible flood hazard areas.

Central College Central College operates from a 180-acre campus in the southwest part of Pella. It is the only institution of higher education in the county. Central College, founded in 1853, is a private four-year liberal arts college affiliated with the Reformed Church in America. The following is a map of the campus. Figure 3.28: Map of Central College


Page 3.82

3.2.52: Central College Infrastructure, Services, and Resources An estimated 67 buildings are located on the campus, including several student residence halls. Many community organizations and some civic groups use the college’s assets for programs and events during all hours. The institution is a private college, so limited tax authority exists. Student tuition, room and board, grants, and donations fund and will in the future fund mitigation projects. The college uses many of the services available in the city in which the buildings are located. With prepared lunches available and the large size of buildings, the college assets are used as community feeding shelters during and after severe weather. The college’s website is www.central.edu. Public service providers for Central College are as follows: Water: City of Pella Sewer: City of Pella Electric: City of Pella Natural Gas: Alliant Energy Internet and Phone: Windstream, cable and wireless providers Ambulance: Pella Community Ambulance Public notifications: Pella Chronicle, school newsletter and website Sanitation: Midwest Sanitation Other school infrastructure: athletic fields, ball diamonds, tennis courts, open spaces, golf facilities, practice

facilities, loading and unloading facilities, and parking 3.2.53: NFIP Participation The City of Pella is participating in the NFIP. No college assets are within the FHA of the current FIRM. 3.2.54: Planning Capabilities and Status Central College participated in the County’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. Other planning and training efforts include: Central College land use and campus plan adopted in 2009. Current land use map. Review of designs, site plans, and landscaping for building projects District is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Mutual aid agreements are on file for all services. Participates with Pella Fire Department’s emergency response team. Has own building inspector and public works (grounds) official. Local utility, civic, Red Cross, and environmental groups operate on campus or cooperate with groups on

campus. 3.2.55: Current Mitigation Actions Central College has been involved in hazard mitigation actions affecting the campus and its student body. The following table describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive.

http://www.central.edu/


Page 3.83

Table 3.30: Central College Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions Primary Hazards Addressed by Mitigation


Status

Notes W

inds

torm

Seve

re w

inte

r sto

rm

Thun

ders

torm

/ligh

tnin

g

Ener

gy fa

ilure

Hai

lsto

rm

Com

mun

icat

ions

failu

re

Extre

me

heat

Con

vent

iona

l ter

roris

m

Bio

terr

oris

m

Hum

an d

isea

se in

cide

nt

Torn

ado

NOAA weather radios in use on school property

Complete 4 on campus X X X X X X

Improve public awareness of hazard risks – distribute materials

Ongoing Information on college website and information to new students


Install warning siren system Complete Warning siren close enough to alert students when outside

X X X X

Post an information sign or kiosk Complete Several directional and other signs on campus

X X X X X X X X X

Enforce OSHA HAZMAT regulations

Complete College manages its materials adequately

X X X


Complete College is active in planning efforts of all types


Install speed limit signs Complete City/county handle adequately X X Install and/or update anti-virus software

Complete College stays on top of this issue X


Complete Information on college website and information to new students


Develop and enforce snow removal policies

Complete Handled well on campus and by the city near campus

X


Ongoing Process in place; locations are secured (electronically and physical vaults)

X X X X X

Restricted access procedures Complete In place and enforced X X X X X X X X X Tree trimming process Ongoing Polices and staff in place X X X X X X Hire or designate public information officer

Complete Staff appointed X X X X X X X X X X X

Implement school continuity of operations and succession plan

Complete Plan in place if leadership and key assets damaged or unable to serve


Purchase snow trucks, plows, sanders

Complete College has equipment for campus property

X

Purchase road closure barricades Complete College has these adequately X X X X X X X Develop volunteer base Complete A college response team is in

place X X X X X X X X X

Purchase new, modernize, and/or harden existing mobile and personal responder communications

Underway Appropriate communications in place between school, law, EMS, fire, college transportation staff, etc.


Maintain emergency operation center with 24-hour capacity

Underway Working with Pella and the County on updating facility

X X X X X X X X


Complete Pella water tower in the area provides adequate pressure

X X

Redundant systems and looping (water, sewer, electric, gas) on campus

Structural project

Prevention X X X X X X X X


Structural project

Prevention X X X X X X X

Community drills – fire, tornado, lockdown

Ongoing Basic drills held, collaborating with City and County on MJ efforts; could increase effort

X X X X X X X X


Page 3.84

Dozens of mitigation actions are being undertaken at Central College either by institutional leadership and staff or by partners, including, but not limited to, the EMA, City of Pella, utility providers, and State/Federal agencies. 3.2.56: Outlook and Future Development Central College continues to grow and it is likely that more campus buildings will be added. The campus could expand to new areas. None of the new areas are likely to include flood hazard areas. The value of the campus properties is likely to continue to increase more than the local rate of inflation.

Knoxville Community School District Knoxville Community School District is the largest district in terms of amount of territory served in the county, which is the central part of the county, and second largest in terms of enrollment. The 2010-11 enrollment was 1,947 students from pre-K to 12th Grade. The district serves the communities of Knoxville and Harvey and approximately 25% of the rural county. Knoxville CSD benefits from the support of residents, parents, and taxpayers in the central part of the county. 3.2.57: Knoxville CSD Infrastructure, Services, and Resources All school assets are found in Knoxville and are listed as part of the city of Knoxville critical asset list in Chapter 6. The facilities are located in various parts of the town, which include an administration building, high school, two elementary schools, and an alternative high school. Accessory uses include athletic fields, parking areas, transportation facilities, and other outbuildings. See Table 3.14 for school building addresses and Figure 3.12 for a map showing the locations of main assets. Many community organizations and some civic groups use the school assets for programs and events outside of school hours. In FY 10-11, Knoxville CSD levied a tax rate of $17.79702 for regular property. In FY 10-11, the district had the following assessed valuations: $418 million residential, $61 million agricultural, $64 million commercial, $10 million industrial, $6 million railroads, $31 million utilities, for a total of $569 million. Other tools to implement mitigation projects include: debt through bonding, property taxes, grants, fundraising, and a local option sales tax for infrastructure. The school uses many of the services available in the city in which the buildings are located. With prepared lunches available and the large size of buildings, the school assets are used as community feeding shelters during and after severe weather. Public service providers for the Knoxville CSD are as follows: Water: Knoxville Water Works Sewer: City of Knoxville Electric: MidAmercian Energy Natural Gas: Alliant Energy Internet and Phone: Windstream and Iowa Communications Network (ICN) Ambulance: Knoxville Fire and Rescue; Knoxville Hospital Public notifications: Knoxville Journal Express Sanitation: Waste Management Other school infrastructure: athletic fields, ball diamonds, tennis courts, elementary playgrounds, practice

facilities, bus storage 3.2.58: NFIP Participation The City of Knoxville is participating in the NFIP. No school assets are within the FHA of the current FIRM. 3.2.59: Planning Capabilities and Status The Knoxville CSD participated in the County’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. Other planning and training efforts include:


Page 3.85

District is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Mutual aid agreements are on file for all services. 3.2.60: Current Mitigation Actions Knoxville Schools has been involved in hazard mitigation actions affecting school assets only, not all areas of the school district. In addition to the planning and emergency response plans and policies available in each community, the school district maintains handbooks for each school. Handbooks include prevention and response information for potential emergencies such as tornado, fire or weapons. The school also has a written crisis policy. All visitors to the school campuses are required to check in at the main offices to obtain permission to be in the buildings. The following table describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive. Table 3.31: Knoxville CSD Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions


Mitigation Action

Status

Notes W

inds

torm

Seve

re w

inte

r sto

rm

Thun

ders

torm

/ligh

tnin

g

Ener

gy fa

ilure

Hai

lsto

rm

Com

mun

icat

ions

failu

re

Extre

me

heat

Con

vent

iona

l ter

roris

m

Bio

terr

oris

m

Hum

an d

isea

se in

cide

nt

Torn

ado


Complete, ongoing

Good communications with city and county responders

X X X X X X

Rail and highway safety education programs for students

Ongoing Driver education, safety programs for kids, bike safety

Install warning siren system Complete Warning siren close enough to alert children and caregivers when outside

X X X X


Complete District manages its materials adequately

X X X


Complete School district is active in planning efforts of all types


Install and/or update anti-virus software

Complete School stays on top of this issue X

Establish multi-jurisdictional partnerships to address storm water runoff

Complete City/School relationship established to control water

X


Complete School staff handles this issue on school properties

X

Make all schools handicap accessible

Complete Compliance met in occupied buildings

X X X X X X X X

Remove asbestos from schools Complete Removed, areas tested X Demolish abandoned buildings Complete All modern buildings X X X X X Remove unused chemical containers

Complete None in place today X X X X X X X X

Tree planting programs Ongoing School active in this area X X Remove dead vegetation Ongoing School staff active in this area X X X X X Install backflow devices Complete Installed by City X Implement a bomb squad Ongoing Part of regional team agreement X X Implement a mass casualty plan Complete Part of adopted EOP X X X X X X X X Review/update HAZMAT emergency plan

Complete Part of adopted EOP X X X

Develop/update school evacuation plan

Complete Practiced with fire drills, worked on plan to bus students offsite

X X

Develop volunteer base Complete A school response team is in place

X X X X X X X X

Purchase new, modernize, and/or harden existing mobile and

Complete Appropriate communications in place between school, law, EMS,



Page 3.86

personal responder communications

fire, bus drivers, etc.


Complete School has equipment for school properties

X

Develop/maintain security at applicable critical assets (surveillance cameras, lighting)

Complete In place at key locations X X


Complete In place at key buildings X X X X X X X

Purchase stand-by portable pumps and generators

Complete Available to building needs and transportation needs

X X X X X X X X X

Community drills – fire, tornado, lockdown

Ongoing Basic drills held, collaborating with City and County on MJ efforts

X X X X X X X X

Dozens of mitigation actions are being undertaken in the District either by District leadership or by partners, including the EMA, City of Knoxville, utility providers, and State/Federal agencies. 3.2.61: Outlook and Future Development Knoxville Community School District will likely invest in modest growth of assets, mostly on the same properties already owned. If enrollment increases over time, it will likely be in small amounts, and entire new campuses are unlikely. School equipment is expensive and the value of properties is likely to continue to increase even without annual construction projects.

Melcher-Dallas Community School District Melcher-Dallas Community School District is a relatively small district in the southwest part of the county. The 2010-11 enrollment was 344 students from pre-K to 12th Grade. The district serves the community of Melcher-Dallas and approximately 15% of the rural county. Melcher-Dallas CSD benefits from the support of residents, parents, and taxpayers in the southwest part of the county. 3.2.62: Melcher-Dallas CSD Infrastructure, Services, and Resources All school assets are found in Melcher-Dallas and are listed as part of the city of Melcher-Dallas critical asset list in Chapter 6. The facilities are located in various parts of the town, elementary school in Dallas and high school in Melcher. Accessory uses include athletic fields, parking areas, transportation facilities, and other outbuildings. See Table 3.14 for school building addresses and Figure 3.15 for a map showing the locations of main assets. Community organizations and civic groups use the school assets for programs and events outside of school hours. In FY 10-11, Melcher-Dallas CSD levied a tax rate of $19.59686 for regular property. In FY 10-11, the district had the following assessed valuations: $56 million residential, $28 million agricultural, $2.1 million commercial, $4 million railroads, $8 million utilities, for a total of $92 million. Other tools to implement mitigation projects include: debt through bonding, property taxes, grants, fundraising, and a local option sales tax for infrastructure. The school uses many of the services available in the city in which the buildings are located. With prepared lunches available and the large size of buildings, the school assets could be but are not regularly used as community feeding shelters during and after severe weather. A 3-day outage would greatly impact the school buildings, which lack generators. The school’s website is www.melcher-dallas.k12.ia.us. Public service providers for the Melcher-Dallas CSD are as follows: Water: City of Melcher-Dallas Sewer: City of Melcher-Dallas Electric: MidAmercian Energy Natural Gas: MidAmercian Energy

http://www.melcher-dallas.k12.ia.us/


Page 3.87

Internet and Phone: Windstream, Iowa Communications Network (ICN) Ambulance: M-D Fire Dept., Knoxville Hospital Public notifications: Knoxville Journal Express Sanitation: Waste Management Other school infrastructure: athletic fields, ball diamonds, tennis courts, elementary playgrounds, practice

facilities, bus storage 3.2.63: NFIP Participation The City of Melcher-Dallas is participating in the NFIP. No school assets are within the FHA of the current FIRM. 3.2.64: Planning Capabilities and Status The Melcher-Dallas CSD participated in the County’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. Other planning and training efforts include: District is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Mutual aid agreements are on file for emergency services. 3.2.65: Current Mitigation Actions Melcher-Dallas Schools has been involved in hazard mitigation actions affecting school assets only, not all areas of the school district. In addition to the planning and emergency response plans and policies available in each community, the school district maintains handbooks for each school. Handbooks include prevention and response information for potential emergencies such as tornado, fire or weapons. The school also has a written crisis policy. All visitors to the school campuses are required to check in at the main offices to obtain permission to be in the buildings. The following table describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive. Table 3.32: Melcher-Dallas CSD Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions


Mitigation Action

Status

Notes W

inds

torm

Seve

re w

inte

r sto

rm

Thun

ders

torm

/ligh

tnin

g

Ener

gy fa

ilure

Hai

lsto

rm

Com

mun

icat

ions

failu

re

Extre

me

heat

Con

vent

iona

l ter

roris

m

Bio

terr

oris

m

Hum

an d

isea

se in

cide

nt

Torn

ado


Complete, ongoing


X X X X X X


Ongoing Driver education, safety programs for kids, bike safety, Sheriff involved

Install warning siren system Complete Warning siren close enough to alert children and caregivers when outside

X X X X



X X X





Complete School stays on top of this issue X


Complete Iowa Association of School Boards


Establish multi-jurisdictional Complete City/School relationship X


Page 3.88

partnerships to address storm water runoff

established to control water


Complete School website X X X X X X X X X X X



X

Backup jurisdiction files and records – store in alternative locations

Complete, ongoing

Secretary backs to server and takes some file copies home

X X X X X X

Restricted access procedures Complete Generic X X X X X X X X Make all schools handicap accessible


X X X X X X X X

Remove asbestos from schools Complete Removed, areas tested X Demolish abandoned buildings Complete Part of elementary campus was

replaced due to water damage X X X X X

Tree trimming projects for public properties

Ongoing School staff manages X X X X X X


Complete Insurance company helps address issue

X X X X X X X X

Remove dead vegetation Ongoing School staff active in this area X X X X X Implement a mass casualty plan Complete Part of adopted EOP X X X X X X X X Hire or designate public information officer

Complete Superintendent serves X X X X X X X X X X X

Implement school continuity of operations and succession plan

Complete Protocol in place X X X X X X X X X X X


Complete School has equipment for school properties

X

Full fire protection sprinkler systems

Complete School is modern enough and has sprinklers where needed

X X

Install pressure tank/water tower for potable water

Complete City has; water pressure is good X X X X

Alternative bus routes and plans for road closure barricades

Complete, ongoing

In place, notifying public during incidents is ongoing

X X X X X X

Community drills – fire, tornado, lockdown, bus evacuation


X X X X X X X X

Dozens of mitigation actions are being undertaken in the District either by District leadership or by partners, including the EMA, City of Melcher-Dallas, utility providers, and State/Federal agencies. 3.2.66: Outlook and Future Development Melcher-Dallas Community School District will likely invest in modest growth of assets, mostly on the same properties already owned. If enrollment increases over time, it will likely be in small amounts, and entire new campuses are unlikely. School equipment is expensive and the value of properties is likely to continue to increase even without annual construction projects.

Pella Community School District The Pella Community School District is a relatively large district in the northeast part of the county. The 2010-11 enrollment was 2,335 students from pre-K to 12th Grade. The district serves the community of Pella and approximately 20% of the rural county. Pella CSD benefits from the support of residents, parents, and taxpayers in the northeast part of the county. 3.2.67: Pella CSD Infrastructure, Services, and Resources All school assets are found in Pella and are listed as part of the city of Pella critical asset list in Chapter 6. The facilities are located in various parts of the town. Instructional centers include the high school, middle school, intermediate school, and two elementary schools. Accessory uses include athletic fields, parking areas,


Page 3.89

transportation facilities, and other outbuildings. See Table 3.14 for school building addresses and Figure 3.15 for a map showing the locations of main assets. Many community organizations and some civic groups use the school assets for programs and events outside of school hours. In FY 10-11, Pella CSD levied a tax rate of $14.21433 for regular property. In FY 10-11, the district had the following assessed valuations: $750 million residential, $60 million agricultural, $95 million commercial, $38 million industrial, $0.5 million railroads, $14 million utilities, for a total of $947 million. Other tools to implement mitigation projects include: debt through bonding, property taxes, grants, fundraising, and a local option sales tax for infrastructure. The school uses many of the services available in the city in which the buildings are located. With prepared lunches available and the large size of buildings, the school assets are regularly used as community feeding shelters during and after severe weather. The school’s website is www.pella.k12.ia.us/. Public service providers for the Pella CSD are as follows: Water: City of Pella Sewer: City of Pella Electric: City of Pella Natural Gas: Alliant Energy Internet and Phone: Windstream, Iowa Communications Network (ICN) Ambulance: Pella Community Ambulance Public notifications: Pella Chronicle Sanitation: Midwest Sanitation Other school infrastructure: athletic fields, ball diamonds, tennis courts, elementary playgrounds, practice

facilities, bus storage 3.2.68: NFIP Participation The City of Pella is participating in the NFIP. No school assets are within the FHA of the current FIRM. 3.2.69: Planning Capabilities and Status The Pella CSD participated in the County’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. Other planning and training efforts include: District is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Mutual aid agreements are on file for all services. 3.2.70: Current Mitigation Actions Pella Schools has been involved in hazard mitigation actions affecting school assets only, not all areas of the school district. In addition to the planning and emergency response plans and policies available in each community, the school district maintains handbooks for each school. Handbooks include prevention and response information for potential emergencies such as tornado, fire or weapons. The school also has a written crisis policy. All visitors to the school campuses are required to check in at the main offices to obtain permission to be in the buildings. The following table describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive. Table 3.33: Pella CSD Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions

http://www.pella.k12.ia.us/


Page 3.90


Mitigation Action

Status

Notes W

inds

torm

Seve

re w

inte

r sto

rm

Thun

ders

torm

/ligh

tnin

g

Ener

gy fa

ilure

Hai

lsto

rm

Com

mun

icat

ions

failu

re

Extre

me

heat

Con

vent

iona

l ter

roris

m

Bio

terr

oris

m

Hum

an d

isea

se in

cide

nt

Torn

ado


Complete, ongoing


X X X X X X


Ongoing Driver education, safety programs for kids, bike safety, Sheriff involved



X X X





Complete School stays on top of this issue, updates annually

X



X

Make all schools handicap accessible


X X X X X X X X


Complete Insurance company helps address issue

X X X X X X X X

Install backflow devises Complete City/School partnership – building protected

X

Remove dead vegetation Ongoing School staff active in this area X X X X X Adopt/promote terrorism response plan

Complete Part of Schools adopted Emergency Response Plan

X X X

Develop/implement extreme heat response/recovery plan

Complete Supplies in place, plan adopted X X

Review/update hazardous materials emergency plan

Complete Plan adopted X X X

Develop/update/publicize school evacuation plan

Complete Plan in place for certain hazards, practiced

X X X X X X

School participation in an emergency operations plan (EOP)

Complete School adopted, County EMA supported


Hire or designate public information officer

Complete Superintendent serves X X X X X X X X X X X


Complete Currently have adequate radios and cell phones

X X X X X X X X X X


Complete On school property is adequate redundancy and systems

X X X X X X X X X X

Install alternative or sustainable storm water control options such as buffer strips, bioswales, rain gardens

Complete Some of these are on school property


Complete, ongoing


X X X X X X

Full review of policy, procedure, and codes

Complete, ongoing

Three-year review policy in place


Investigate and implement alternative energy sources

Ongoing Have done some work in this area, still pursuing



X X X X X X X X


Page 3.91

Dozens of mitigation actions are being undertaken in the District either by District leadership or by partners, including the EMA, City of Pella, utility providers, and State/Federal agencies. 3.2.71: Outlook and Future Development Pella Community School District will likely invest in modest to considerable growth of assets, mostly on the same properties already owned. As the population of Pella and the surrounding area continues to grow, additional buildings and campus locations are possible and could be located in new development areas. School equipment is expensive and the value of properties is likely to continue to increase even without annual construct ion projects.

Pleasantville Community School District The Pleasantville Community School District is a mid-sized district in the west-northwest part of the county. The 2010-11 enrollment was 695 students from pre-K to 12th Grade. The district serves the communities of Pleasantville and Swan and approximately 18% of the rural county. Pleasantville CSD benefits from the support of residents, parents, and taxpayers in the western and northwestern part of the county. 3.2.72: Pleasantville CSD Infrastructure, Services, and Resources All school assets are found in Pleasantville and are listed as part of the City of Pleasantville critical asset list in Chapter 6. The facilities are located in western part of the town. Instructional centers include the high school, middle school, and elementary school. Accessory uses include athletic fields, parking areas, transportation facilities, and other outbuildings. See Table 3.14 for school building addresses and Figure 3.15 for a map showing the locations of main assets. Many community organizations and some civic groups use the school assets for programs and events outside of school hours. In FY 10-11, Pleasantville CSD levied a tax rate of $14.84253 for regular property. In FY 10-11, the district had the following assessed valuations: $124 million residential, $46 million agricultural, $7.6 million commercial, $0.6 million industrial, $6.5 million railroads, $8.3 million utilities, for a total of $186 million. Other tools to implement mitigation projects include: debt through bonding, property taxes, grants, fundraising, and a local option sales tax for infrastructure. The school uses many of the services available in the city in which the buildings are located. With prepared lunches available and the large size of buildings, the school assets are regularly used as community feeding shelters during and after severe weather. The school’s website is www.pleasantville.k12.ia.us/. Public service providers for the Pleasantville CSD are as follows: Water: City of Pleasantville Sewer: City of Pleasantville Electric: MidAmercian Energy Natural Gas: MidAmercian Energy Internet and Phone: Windstream, Iowa Communications Network (ICN) Ambulance: Pleasantville Fire Dept., Knoxville Hospital Public notifications: Pleasantville/Marion County News Sanitation: Waste Management Other school infrastructure: athletic fields, ball diamonds, tennis courts, elementary playgrounds, practice

facilities, bus storage 3.2.73: NFIP Participation The City of Pleasantville is not participating in the NFIP. However, no school assets are within the flood hazard area of the current FIRM. 3.2.74: Planning Capabilities and Status

http://www.pleasantville.k12.ia.us/


Page 3.92

The Pleasantville CSD participated in the County’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. Other planning and training efforts include: District is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Mutual aid agreements are on file for all services. 3.2.75: Current Mitigation Actions Pleasantville CDS did not participate in the identification of existing mitigation measures affecting or undertaken by the District. 3.2.76: Outlook and Future Development Pleasantville Community School District will likely invest in modest growth of assets, mostly on the same properties already owned. It is likely that the growth will not involve new buildings on new development sites. School equipment is expensive and the value of properties is likely to continue to increase even without annual construction projects.

Twin Cedars Community School District The Twin Cedars Community School District is a small district in the southeast part of the county. The 2010-11 enrollment was 468 students from pre-K to 12th Grade. The district serves the communities of Bussey, Hamilton, and Marysville and approximately 15% of the rural county. Twin Cedars CSD benefits from the support of residents, parents, and taxpayers in the southeastern part of the county. 3.2.77: Twin Cedars CSD Infrastructure, Services, and Resources All school assets are found in rural Marion County and are listed as part of the Rural Marion County critical asset list in Chapter 6. The facilities are located just three miles west of Bussey on County Highway T-17. Instructional centers include the high school, middle school, and elementary school all on one site. Accessory uses include athletic fields, parking areas, transportation facilities, and other outbuildings. See Table 3.14 for school building addresses and Figure 3.15 for a map showing the locations of main assets. Many community organizations and some civic groups use the school assets for programs and events outside of school hours. In FY 10-11, Twin Cedars CSD levied a tax rate of $14.70946 for regular property. In FY 10-11, the district had the following assessed valuations: $58 million residential, $40 million agricultural, $2.6 million commercial, $4.3 million railroads, $10 million utilities, for a total of $107 million. Other tools to implement mitigation projects include: debt through bonding, property taxes, grants, fundraising, and a local option sales tax for infrastructure. The school uses many of the services available in the county. With prepared lunches available and the large size of buildings, the school assets are regularly used as community feeding shelters during and after severe weather. The school’s website is www.twincedars.k12.ia.us/. Public service providers for the Twin Cedars CSD are as follows: Water: Marion Rural Water Sewer: Individual system with lagoon just south of school site Electric: MidAmercian Energy Natural Gas: MidAmercian Energy Internet and Phone: Windstream, Iowa Communications Network (ICN) Ambulance: Bussey Fire Dept., Knoxville Hospital Public notifications: Knoxville Journal Express Sanitation: Waste Management

http://www.twincedars.k12.ia.us/


Page 3.93

Other school infrastructure: athletic fields, ball diamonds, tennis courts, elementary playgrounds, practice facilities, bus storage, sewer lagoon

3.2.78: NFIP Participation Marion County participates in the NFIP. There are no school assets, other than possibly the sewer lagoons, within the FHA of the current FIRM. 3.2.79: Planning Capabilities and Status The Twin Cedars CSD participated in the County’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. Other planning and training efforts include: District is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Mutual aid agreements are on file for all services. 3.2.80: Current Mitigation Actions Twin Cedars Schools has been involved in hazard mitigation actions affecting school assets only, not all areas of the school district. In addition to the planning and emergency response plans and policies available in each community, the school district maintains handbooks for each school. Handbooks include prevention and response information for potential emergencies such as tornado, fire or weapons. The school also has a written crisis policy. All visitors to the school campuses are required to check in at the main offices to obtain permission to be in the buildings. The following table describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive. Table 3.34: Twin Cedars CSD Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions


Mitigation Action

Status

Notes W

inds

torm

Seve

re w

inte

r sto

rm

Thun

ders

torm

/ligh

tnin

g

Ener

gy fa

ilure

Hai

lsto

rm

Com

mun

icat

ions

failu

re

Extre

me

heat

Con

vent

iona

l ter

roris

m

Bio

terr

oris

m

Hum

an d

isea

se in

cide

nt

Torn

ado

Install speed limit signs Complete County installed and enforced near school entrances


Complete School stays on top of this issue, updates annually

X


Ongoing Partnerships at State and Federal level in place




X

Back-up jurisdiction files and records – store in alternative locations

Complete School staff handles this issue, policy and process in place

X X X X X X X X

Remove asbestos in schools Complete As far as known and tested, mudded joints in ceilings only

X


Complete Have done it in the past; sponsored by schools insurance company

X X X X X X X X

Tree planting projects on school property

Ongoing As funds allow X X X

Clean sewer lines Ongoing With limited use during summer, lines need cleaned in fall before use increases when school starts

X


Page 3.94

Adopt/promote terrorism response plan

Complete Part of Schools adopted Emergency Response Plan

X X X

Develop/implement extreme heat response/recovery plan

Complete Supplies in place, plan adopted X X

Develop/update/publicize school evacuation plan

Complete Plan in place for certain hazards, practiced

X X X X X X

School participation in an emergency operations plan (EOP)

Complete School adopted, County EMA supported


Purchase snow plows, trucks, sanders

Complete School owns X X X X

Develop lighting and maintain security at applicable assets (surveillance cameras, lighting)

Complete Located on school property, sheriff also enforces laws

X X


Complete, ongoing


X X X X X X



X X X X X X X X

More than a dozen mitigation actions are being undertaken in the District either by District leadership or by partners, including the EMA, County departments, utility providers, and State/Federal agencies. 3.2.81: Outlook and Future Development Twin Cedars Community School District will likely not invest in growth of assets as its enrollment is likely to be stable or decline slightly. It is likely that growth, if any, will not involve new buildings on new development sites. School equipment is expensive and the value of properties is likely to continue to increase even without annual construction projects.

Knoxville Hospital and Clinics The Knoxville Hospital and Clinics is one of two hospitals that serve residents from a campus in Marion County. The hospital’s mission is: “Through our caring compassion, and with a healing spirit, we provide exceptional healthcare services.” The hospital has a rich history. Knoxville’s first hospital opened in 1935 and was owned and operated by Dr. R.V. Mater. Dr. Mater located his medical practice in a large house on the corner of 7th and Montgomery Streets. He used the building to provide the community with a doctor's office and a small hospital. Five years later in 1940, Collins Memorial Hospital, a 27-bed facility, opened. Mrs. Laffe Collins and her son, Jay Collins, donated the money for the hospital ground and the building. In 1963, Collins Memorial Hospital was purchased by the Mater Clinic Group. Following the purchase, a building project began and a new wing to the hospital was opened in July of 1966. The new wing increased the capacity of the hospital to 50 beds. In the later 1970s, planning began for a new community hospital. A foundation was formed and fundraising began to build and equip the new facility. Construction began and Knoxville Area Community Hospital was completed and ready for business in February of 1981. In December 2002, Knoxville Area Community Hospital & Clinic received the official designation as a Critical Access Hospital. The Critical Access program provides enhanced Medicare reimbursement for small rural hospitals and became a safety net for Iowa’s rural hospitals. As a Critical Access Hospital, Knoxville Area Community Hospital operates with 25 inpatient beds. In 2003, the Knoxville Area Community Hospital & Clinic Foundation was re-established to raise funds to help keep the healthcare system modern and responsive to the region’s needs. Since the re-establishment, the Foundation has purchased many pieces of life-saving equipment for the hospital and clinics and has helped with several remodeling and expansion projects. In April of 2005, Knoxville Area Community Hospital & Clinic purchased the Pleasantville Clinic located in Pleasantville, Iowa. In honor of the facility’s 25th anniversary in February 2006, Knoxville Area Community Hospital & Clinics began operating as Knoxville Hospital & Clinics. (Source: hospital website.) 3.2.82: Knoxville Hospital Infrastructure, Services, and Resources Knoxville Hospital and Clinics has assets at the following locations:


Page 3.95

Main hospital: 1002 South Lincoln, Knoxville Hospital clinic: 1202 West Howard, Knoxville KHC Bell Ave. Clinic: 1008 West Bell, Suite 104, Knoxville Pleasantville Clinic, 104 North Washington Street, Pleasantville EJ McKeever Medical Center, 113 North Main St., Melcher The Knoxville Hospital main campus includes a fixed power generator (although limited capacity), extensive medical equipment, EMS and transport equipment, a helipad, emergency room, fire protection systems, alert and alarm systems, and in-patient beds for up to 25 patients. The Knoxville Hospital’s website is http://knoxvillehospital.org/. The website includes extensive helpful information that addresses human disease incident and pandemic prevention, response, and treatment. Public service providers for the Knoxville Hospital’s assets are as follows: Water: Knoxville Water Works, Cities of Pleasantville and Melcher-Dallas Sewer: Cities of Knoxville, Pleasantville, and Melcher-Dallas Electric: MidAmercian Energy Natural Gas: Alliant Energy, MidAmerican Energy Internet and Phone: Windstream, cable providers Ambulance: Knoxville Fire and Rescue; Pleasantville Fire; Melcher-Dallas Fire; Knoxville Hospital Public notifications: Knoxville Journal Express Sanitation: Waste Management Other hospital infrastructure: ambulances, helipad, wellness facility, and parking areas 3.2.83: NFIP Participation The Cities of Knoxville is participating in the NFIP and Melcher-Dallas and Pleasantville are not at this time. No hospital assets are within the FHA of the current FIRMs. 3.2.84: Planning Capabilities and Status The Knoxville Hospital participated in the County’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. Other planning and training efforts include: Hospital is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Mutual aid agreements are on file for EMS and certain medical services. 3.2.85: Current Mitigation Actions Knoxville Hospital has been involved in hazard mitigation actions affecting the hospital campus locations and the general public is serves. While the hospital is concerned mostly with medical-related hazards, protection of the structures and contents of the hospital means that it is also concerned with the direct impact of certain other natural and man-made hazards to the properties. The table on the next page describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive. Table 3.35: Knoxville Hospital and Clinics Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions

Primary Hazards Addressed by Mitigation

http://knoxvillehospital.org/


Page 3.96


Status

Notes W

inds

torm

Seve

re w

inte

r sto

rm

Thun

ders

torm

/ligh

tnin

g

Ener

gy fa

ilure

Com

mun

icat

ions

failu

re

Extre

me

heat

Con

vent

iona

l ter

roris

m

Bio

terr

oris

m

Rad

iolo

gica

l ter

roris

m

Torn

ado

Hum

an d

isea

se in

cide

nt,

pand

emic

*

Availability of cable and satellite with weather advisory overrides

Complete Available in area X X X X X X X X X X X

Install warning siren systems Complete Warning siren is close to hospital and can alert those outside

X X X

Place emergency response guidebooks in emergency vehicles

Complete Supplied by IDOT X X X X X X X X X X X


Complete Hospital employees, EMTs, and other responders are well trained and certified



Ongoing Hospital has looked at this option with design firm

X X X


Ongoing Hospital property has mostly buried utilities

X X X X X X X

Develop/maintain security at applicable critical assets

Complete Provided on hospital property, monitored by staff, enforced by security and Sheriff

X X X

Emergency operations plan in place

Complete Reviewed as part of HMP development process; incident command process and appointees in place


Hospital evacuation plan Complete Part of the EOP X X X X X Pandemic influenza plan Complete Part of the EOP X Mass casualty plan Complete Part of the EOP X X X X X X X X X

* This hazard has not been listed as a priority I hazard but is of unique concern for the hospital because of its service to the community, including thousands of people that use the hospital and its assets. Dozens of mitigation actions are being undertaken by Knoxville Hospital either by hospital leadership or by partners, including the EMA, Cities of Knoxville, Pleasantville, and Melcher-Dallas, utility providers, and State/Federal agencies. 3.2.86: Outlook and Future Development Knoxville Hospital and Clinics will likely invest in modest growth of assets, mostly on the same properties already owned. If demand increases over time, it will likely be in small amounts, and entire new campuses are unlikely. Medical equipment is expensive and the value of properties is likely to continue to increase even without annual construction projects.

Pella Regional Health Center The Pella Regional Health Center is one of two hospitals that serve residents from a campus in Marion County. Pella Regional Health Center is a private, non-profit provider of health care accredited by The Joint Commission. Since opening in 1960, Pella Regional has grown from a facility to care for the acutely ill to a system that includes the hospital, outpatient services, medical clinics and residential facilities. The hospital is operated as a Critical Access Hospital, staffing 25 acute-care beds. The hospital’s mission is to


Page 3.97

provide healthcare and healing services with Christian compassion. (Source: hospital website.) The hospital has a rich history. When Pella Community Hospital first opened its doors in 1960 as an acute care hospital for the town of Pella, there were 17 employees, seven doctors from Pella and about 24,000 square feet. The town was thrilled with their new hospital and turned out in great numbers—nearly 6,000 people—to attend the open house. Over the past five decades, the hospital has made both major and minor changes all to improve access and quality of health care in the area. In the 70s and 80s there were numerous construction projects to expand the scope of what could be provided to patients and residents. In the 90s, there were numerous services added to provide specialized services, such as dialysis, to those in need. In 1996, the Pella Medical Clinic merged with Pella Community Hospital to form Pella Regional Health Center and clinics opened in surrounding communities. This collaboration and regional expansion is a great milestone in the history of the hospital and what it has become today. (Source: hospital website.) 3.2.87: Pella Hospital Infrastructure, Services, and Resources Pella Regional Health Center has assets at the following locations: Main hospital: 404 Jefferson St., Pella Pella Medical Clinic, 405 Monroe, Pella Bussey Medical Clinic, 411 Merrill St., Bussey Hilltop Manor (senior residential care), 408 Jefferson St., Pella Hospice of Pella (Comfort House), 505 Union Street, Pella Knoxville Clinic, 1208 N. Lincoln, Knoxville Two locations outside of the county (Jasper County) The Pella Hospital main campus includes a fixed power generator (although limited capacity), extensive medical equipment, EMS and transport equipment, a helipad, emergency room, fire protection systems, alert and alarm systems, and in-patient beds for at least 25 patients. The Pella Hospital’s website is www.pellahealth.org/. The website includes much helpful information that addresses human disease incident and pandemic prevention, response, and treatment. Public service providers for the Pella Regional Health Center’s assets are as follows: Water: City of Pella, Knoxville Water Works, Mahaska Rural Water Sewer: Cities of Pella, Knoxville, and Bussey Electric: City of Pella, MidAmerican Energy Natural Gas: Alliant Energy, MidAmerica Energy Internet and Phone: Windstream, cable and wireless providers Ambulance: Pella Fire and Rescue, Knoxville Fire and Rescue; Bussey Fire and Rescue; Pella Hospital Public notifications: Pella Chronicle Sanitation: Midwest Sanitation Other hospital infrastructure: ambulances, helipad, wellness facility, and parking areas 3.2.88: NFIP Participation The Cities of Pella and Bussey are participating in the NFIP. No hospital assets are within the SFHA as currently mapped. 3.2.89: Planning Capabilities and Status The Pella Regional Health Center participated in the County’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) prepared with the assistance of the Marion County EMA. Other planning and training efforts include: Hospital is National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) compliant. Mutual aid agreements are on file for EMS and certain medical services.

http://www.pellahealth.org/


Page 3.98

3.2.90: Current Mitigation Actions Pella Regional Health Center has been involved in hazard mitigation actions affecting the hospital campus locations and the general public it serves. While the hospital is concerned mostly with medical-related hazards, protection of the structures and contents of the hospital means that it is also concerned with the direct impact of certain other natural and man-made hazards to the properties. The following table describes the status of mitigation actions that are reported. This list may not be comprehensive. Table 3.36: Pella Regional Health Center Current, Underway, and Ongoing Mitigation Actions


Mitigation Action

Status

Notes W

inds

torm

Seve

re w

inte

r sto

rm

Thun

ders

torm

/ligh

tnin

g

Ener

gy fa

ilure

Com

mun

icat

ions

failu

re

Extre

me

heat

Con

vent

iona

l ter

roris

m

Bio

terr

oris

m

Rad

iolo

gica

l ter

roris

m

Torn

ado

Hum

an d

isea

se in

cide

nt,

pand

emic

*

Availability of cable and satellite with weather advisory overrides

Complete Available in area X X X X X X X X X X X

Improve public awareness of hazards risk – dispense info about key hazards – written and presentation instruments

Ongoing Hospital website and printed materials in facilities

X X X X X X X

Increase public awareness on household hazardous materials

Ongoing Hospital staff, landfill board X X X


Ongoing Policy in place and officials appointed


Install hazard signs on hospital property

Complete Limited but signs are in place for key hazards

X X X X X X X

Install siren warning systems Complete Warning siren is close to hospital and can alert those outside

X X X


Ongoing Hospital has looked at this option with design firm

X X X


Ongoing Hospital property has mostly buried utilities

X X X X X X X

Develop/maintain security at applicable critical assets

Complete Provided on hospital property, monitored by staff, enforced by security and Sheriff

X X X

Emergency operations plan in place

Complete Reviewed as part of HMP development process; incident command process and appointees in place


Place emergency response guidebooks in emergency vehicles

Complete Supplied by IDOT X X X X X X X X X X X


Complete Hospital employees, EMTs, and other responders are well trained and certified


Hospital evacuation plan Complete Part of the EOP X X X X X Pandemic influenza plan Complete Part of the EOP X Mass casualty plan Complete Part of the EOP X X X X X X X X X

* This hazard has not been listed as a priority I hazard but is of unique concern for the hospital because of its service to the community, including thousands of people that live off the campus facilities.


Page 3.99

Nearly two dozen mitigation actions are being undertaken by Pella Regional Health Center either by hospital leadership or by partners, including the EMA, Cities of Pella, Knoxville, or Bussey, utility providers, and State/Federal agencies. 3.2.91: Outlook and Future Development Pella Regional Health Center will likely invest in modest growth of assets, mostly on the same properties already owned. If demand increases over time, it will likely be in small amounts, and entire new campuses are unlikely. Medical equipment is expensive and the value of properties is likely to continue to increase even without annual construction projects. 3.3: Summary Considerations The following paragraphs summarize the capabilities of the county as a whole, with issues that transcend individual jurisdictions. 3.3.1: Accessibility and Infrastructure Limitations While good paved highways exist and provide access to all the important populated areas, necessary levels of accessibility are limited in some instances because of the following issues: Language barriers (primarily Spanish-speaking individuals in some areas of the county); Aging roads and bridges, especially in small towns and rural areas that make it difficult for emergency vehicles

to reach those areas; Many older buildings are not handicap accessible (most of which are privately owned). Debris that could enter the roadways during disasters, such as tornados, windstorms, floods, and ice storms; The failure of the mile-long Highway 14 bridge over Lake Red Rock would impede emergency response

greatly; Broadband communications are limited in some areas of the county, while other areas, especially within Pella

and Knoxville, have multiple options and widespread fiber coverage. 3.3.2: Financial Resources for Hazard Mitigation It is vital that the hazard mitigation process considers the ability and capacity to access the funds it needs in the event a hazard event occurs. It is vital that the EMA and other key partners have a comprehensive funding matrix with addresses and phone numbers for various programs, so that in the case of a disaster, all parties will know whom to contact for back-up or emergency funding. One thing that was discussed was the inability to hold large reserves in the event a disaster occurs so the local funds would be available to match other funds and quickly restore order. One way it was discussed to remedy this is to develop a statewide fund that local communities can leverage, like a trust fund, and then this fund would not tie up a large local reserve. Mitigation funding decisions in the context of available funds (previously described) are based on the expected damage and death/injury impacts. All local jurisdictions have relied heavily upon federal disaster declarations in cases of widespread damage. Sources have included FEMA, IHLSEM, IDNR, IDOT, IDED, and USDA in such events. Concerns raised about financial capabilities include: Lack of even basic funding to address large-scale emergencies while State and Federal declarations are

considered and implemented; Inability to access State and Federal funds quickly due to regulations and bureaucratic processes; Inability to have a large emergency reserve to meet long-term pre- and post-disaster needs. Lack of certified and readily available personnel locally to handle some parts of the post-mitigation activities –

such as managing a safe room once built. Outside authorities are contacted but are not prepared or properly trained or equipped to meet specific local

needs.


Page 3.100

3.3.3: Local Planning Limitations The reasons for ordinance limitations in some jurisdictions include: Overall lack of joint involvement in the code structure. Reliance upon outside professionals or potentially unqualified personnel to do special functions. Inability to date to enforce ordinances on certain existing “grandfathered” structures. Costs and personnel to enforce ordinances - give permits, do inspections, and prosecute offenders. Ever-changing state and federal standards and regulations are difficult to follow with small staffs and budgets. Small towns may lack the understanding of what each ordinance does and why it is necessary. Generally, local plans are meaningful at least in that they further some mitigation goal; however, some jurisdictions have worked on many projects without consideration of impacts to other projects and existing assets. Most of the proposals are not mitigation-based, but rather they are operations-based-i.e, they result in some improvement in service because of past failures, not because of a noted hazard mitigation effect. Some of the measures in the existing plans are also included as possible mitigation measures (Chapter 9), as relevant. 3.4: Statement of Comprehensiveness This profile is in no way intended to be exhaustive and simply provides a baseline understanding of the demographic, social, and economic characteristics and the capacities, capabilities, current policies of communities and organizations in Marion County. The information on this chapter combined with the hazard risk assessment in the following chapters and the goals and problem statements in Chapter 8 help to develop the hazard mitigation strategy in Chapter 9.

chapter 3: planning area profile and capability …...marion county multi-jurisdictional...

Documents