Sec. 31.605. - Division Chief of Emergency Preparedness.

The Division Chief of Emergency Preparedness shall be the division chief of the Emergency Preparedness Division. The Chief shall be appointed by the Mayor, subject to confirmation by the City Council, and shall serve at the pleasure of the Mayor. The Chief shall have at least five years' experience in the administration, training or management of firefighting, emergency medical or rescue personnel, equipment and apparatus. The Chief is responsible for the organization, administration, and operation of the Emergency Preparedness Division, subject to the direction of the Director of Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department or the Emergency Preparedness Director. The Chief shall coordinate the activities, services, and programs for emergency management and disaster response within Duval County and shall be the point of contact with other emergency management organizations. The Chief shall prepare a Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan and program for the emergency management of Duval County pursuant to Chapter 252, Florida Statutes. The Plan shall include, but not be limited to, elements addressing mitigation activities, preparedness, responses to disasters and emergencies, and recovery operations and [the Chief shall] submit the Plan and program to the Director of the State of Florida Division of Emergency Management for review, certification, and consistency with the State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan. The Chief shall monitor and advise the Director of Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department and the Emergency Preparedness Director of any and all threats, emergencies, or disasters that pose a risk to the lives and safety of the residents of Duval County, proposing solutions for their decision on how best to protect people and property from imminent danger, or from further damage. The Chief shall procure supplies and equipment, institute training programs, public preparedness information and education programs, and manage and coordinate disaster drills and exercises in accordance with the Plan. The Chief shall, in consultation with all municipalities, concerned agencies, public utilities and state offices, develop an evacuation plan for Duval County. This plan should be utilized for any or all types of emergencies or disasters. It should coordinate the efforts of all local entities allowing for rapid execution in the face of a sudden disaster. (Ord. 2020-411-E , § 1)