01 - January 17, 2025 - Status of the Emergency Operations CenterCITY COUNCIL INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
Date: January 17, 2025
To: Cupertino City Council
From: Pamela Wu, City Manager
Re: Status of the Emergency Operations Center
Reason for Recommendation
Background
This memorandum provides an update on the state of readiness of Cupertino's
emergency operations including the operational status of the Emergency Operations
Center (EOC) and backup EOC, as well as the training requirements for staff to ensure
full preparedness for emergencies.
Emergency Operations Centers
Primary EOC – City Hall:
The Emergency Operations Center at City Hall is operational and designed as the central
hub for managing emergencies in Cupertino. It is equipped with advanced audio-visual
tools that facilitate real-time situational awareness and communication. These systems
include:
•Video Conferencing and Monitors: For displaying real-time information from
City systems, weather updates, and emergency mapping tools.
•Audio Systems: For clear and consistent communication between internal teams
and external partners, including the Santa Clara County EOC, state agencies, and
mutual aid resources.
•Digital Dashboards: For tracking resource allocation, situation status, and key
performance indicators during emergencies.
The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) conducts regular maintenance checks to
ensure functionality and recent upgrades to software and hardware have enhanced real-
time data-sharing capabilities. The EOC is equipped with backup generators and
uninterrupted power supply systems.
The EOC at City Hall has tools and technology to support emergency response and
coordination; however, the current EOC has limitations and requires consistent and
progressive improvement. As part of the City's commitment to public safety, staff will
continue to evaluate opportunities to enhance the EOC to ensure it meets the growing
needs of our community and remains a robust resource in times of crisis.
Backup EOC – Service Center (10455 Mary Avenue):
The backup EOC located at the Service Center has been equipped to serve as a
secondary command center in the event that the primary EOC becomes inaccessible. The
backup EOC undergoes semi-annual drills to ensure readiness and alignment with the
primary EOC's systems and procedures.
Training Requirements
To ensure that all personnel are adequately prepared for emergency roles, the following
training programs are mandatory for staff:
1. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Independent Study Courses:
o IS-100: Introduction to Incident Command System (ICS)
o IS-200: ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents
o IS-700: National Incident Management System (NIMS), An Introduction
o IS-800: National Response Framework, An Introduction
These courses provide foundational knowledge on emergency response systems,
coordination processes, and national frameworks for disaster management.
2. EOC-Specific Training:
Staff assigned to roles within the EOC are required to complete additional,
section-specific training tailored to their responsibilities. These include:
o Operations Section: Training on resource coordination and strategic
response management.
o Planning Section: Training on situational analysis, incident action
planning, and documentation.
o Logistics Section: Training on resource acquisition, distribution, and
tracking.
o Finance/Administration Section: Training on cost tracking, financial
reporting, and reimbursement procedures.
OEM regularly conducts tabletop exercises and drills to strengthen interdepartmental
and regional partnerships. In 2025, the City will begin revising the Emergency
Operations Plan (EOP), focusing on expanding outreach and engagement to vulnerable
populations.
Sustainability Impact
No sustainability impact.
Fiscal Impact
No fiscal impact.
_____________________________________
Prepared by: Tom Chin, Emergency Manager
Reviewed by: Christopher D. Jensen, City Attorney
Tina Kapoor, Deputy City Manager
Approved for Submission by: Pamela Wu, City Manager