Strategic Plan for Emergency Management in Marin County
Marin County, California, engaged Matrix Consulting Group to assess the structure and operations of its Office of Emergency Services (OES). The study provided county leadership with a roadmap to enhance preparedness, coordination, and resilience in response to increasing wildfire and disaster risks.
Challenge
While the Marin County’s Office of Emergency Services was highly focused on its mission, it operated within a complex network of inter-agency responsibilities and informal communication channels. Internal roles lacked clarity, procedures were not fully standardized, and public communication strategies were fragmented. Additionally, frequent stakeholder engagement efforts lacked formal structures for accountability and follow-through, limiting long-term effectiveness.
Solution
Matrix Consulting Group conducted interviews and focus groups with county departments, city partners, and external stakeholders, while also reviewing emergency operations plans and training efforts. The assessment emphasized the need for structured program management, centralized communication protocols, and clearer internal role definitions.
Key recommendations included:
- Formalizing roles and responsibilities within OES.
- Developing a structured training calendar and exercise program.
- Centralizing planning documentation for better coordination.
- Enhancing staffing in key coordination functions.
- Investing in public information tools to improve disaster communication.
Outcome
By implementing these changes, Marin County strengthened its cross-jurisdictional coordination and improved overall preparedness. The County is now positioned to provide a more cohesive, adaptable emergency management framework that meets the demands of an evolving risk landscape.
