Title
An Ordinance of the City Commission of Coral Gables, Florida, creating a State of Emergency Ordinance to Establish Powers and Regulations during a State of Emergency; providing for a repealer provision, severability clause, codification, enforceability and providing for an effective date.
(Sponsored by Mayor Valdes-Fauli)
Body
Recently, the City was affected by Hurricane Irma and declared a state of emergency. Throughout the process of preparing for the storm, governing during the storm and working to return the City to normalcy post-storm, a number of powers and procedures were noted that would assist in adequately protecting the City’s residents, businesses and visitors.
The City is located in an area that is prone to severe weather events such as tropical storms and hurricanes which, due to their danger and effect, result in a state of emergency. Consequently, hurricanes are anticipated to recur in the future and action in advance is appropriate in order to protect health, safety and welfare and falls within the City’s police powers. Furthermore, all areas of the United States are vulnerable to natural disasters, terrorist attacks, riots and other significant events which may also result in a state of emergency.
During a state of emergency is it of utmost importance that city officials and employees are able to act swiftly and adequately to provide necessary services and to protect the health, safety and welfare of those in the city. Sec. 252.38(3)(a), F.S. grants municipalities extensive authority during a state of emergency.
This Ordinance establishes the powers granted to elected and appointed officials during such time, and sets forth requirements to ensure the safety and welfare of City residents, businesses and visitors by allowing for appropriate preparations prior to the storm, as well as powers during and after the event.