Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.
Q&A
NYCEM's approach to potential federal funding cuts
2:30:37
ยท
101 sec
Council Member Ariola inquires about NYCEM's preparation for potential loss of federal funds. Commissioner Iscol explains the agency's reliance on the Urban Area Security Initiative grant program and outlines their plan to address potential funding changes.
- NYCEM is launching a 90-day review to assess how to fill gaps in the new funding landscape
- The review will involve collaboration with city, regional, private sector, and state partners
- Commissioner Iscol acknowledges the need to adapt to potential changes in federal emergency management structures
Joann Ariola
2:30:37
Because you touched on on the federal government, and we have a new administration, So and I appreciate you saying that a lot of your cuts had come before this administration.
2:30:52
What steps have NISAM taken to prepare for the possibility of losing federal funds, and do you have alternative funding that you're seeking in the event?
Zachary Iscol
2:31:02
Yeah, thank you for your question.
2:31:04
So we have seen this reduction in federal funds over the last number of years, and Chris can talk a little bit more about it.
2:31:09
But after nineeleven, the federal government set up a program, the Urban Area Security Initiative, which is a grant program that is responsible for two thirds of our agencies' funding.
2:31:22
That funding over the last number of years has been diluted as more and more jurisdictions tap into those federal funds.
2:31:29
This is not something that is new, although there are significant changes that possibly could be occurring with this new administration.
2:31:37
They're looking at revamping FEMA, possibly doing away with FEMA.
2:31:40
There are cuts being made to some of these agencies that we depend upon for disease surveillance, weather forecasting, communications.
2:31:50
So one of the things that we're doing now is, as I mentioned in my testimony, we're launching a ninety day review starting today to look at how can the city, the region, our private sector, our partners with the state, the authorities, our sister agencies, how can we fill those gaps in this new normal to make sure that we are there for New Yorkers?
2:32:09
So not the best answer for your question other than say would love to work with you over the next ninety days and certainly come back and brief you on those recommendations for what we can do going forward.
Joann Ariola
2:32:18
I think it's commendable that you even have that in place.