The Belmont Emergency Management Agency (BEMA) is an extension of the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), established by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to coordinate emergency services with various state, local, and federal agencies during a state of emergency or alert. During such emergencies/alerts, MEMA operates from their headquarters in Framingham and communicates with local emergency management agencies, such as Belmont’s, via radio, fax, message beepers, the Internet and telephone.
2003 has been an exciting year for the Agency. There had been great anticipation of Federal grant money being made available to communities. The Federal grant money finally arrived and the Agency was awarded two grants. One grant was awarded for emergency planning and the second grant was for Community Emergency Response Team training. Some of the major accomplishments of the Agency are listed below.
The agency monitored town emergency activities to maintain a readiness for a situation appropriate response.
The Agency reviewed the town’s Comprehensive Emergency Plan and changes were submitted to MEMA.
The Agency participated in Emergency Planning surveys required by Federal and State Agencies.
The Agency conducted a pilot training program for a Community Emergency Response Team. This training was completed for ten residents including three high school students. The training was well received and it is anticipated that additional grant funds will be available to continue this training.
Due to the condition of the Waverley Square Fire Station, where the Agency operates from, funds were approved, at a special Town Meeting in June, to authorize funds to relocate to the Chenery Middle School. Work has started to facilitate this move.
I would like to thank Leo J. Saidnawey, my Assistant Director for his endless support. In addition, I would like to thank Mr. Robert Gad III, Fire Lieutenant Rick Nohl, and Mr. John Steeves for their continued support to BEMA. In addition I would like to thank all of the town departments that have provided support to the Emergency Management Agency.
Respectfully submitted,
Assistant Chief David L. Frizzell, Emergency Management Director
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