Carver County, Minnesota is now one step closer to completing its Continuity of Operations (COOP) plan using the BOLDplanning.com platform. That’s because on October 14-15, 2019, all divisions of the County participated in mid-term COOP workshops facilitated by Tennessee-based BOLDplanning. Such workshops give plan contributors the chance to learn more about the widely used online software, address any/all current planning gaps, plus share in numerous best practices for COOP development.
Carver County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the State of Minnesota. It is located just southwest of the Twin Cities, and is considered home to an estimated 98,741 people (U.S. Census, 2015). Its communities offer respected and growing schools, reputable medical facilities, and high-tech libraries. And, like other counties, Carver County provides a number of important services, including public works, emergency management, and health and human services, to local residents.
Having a current, and just as important, actionable COOP plan means Carver County has taken the necessary steps to ensure these services (and others) remain available in the event of a business disruption. Such disruptions may stem from natural disasters, IT outages/cyberattacks, fires, and other critical situations. And, as evidenced by recent events across the country, the adverse effects of these disruptions can last hours, days, weeks or even longer, making advanced planning and emergency preparedness invaluable to county government and local communities.
The all-important next step for Carver County is the review of departmental plans (as they feed into the County’s overarching COOP). Plan finalization is expected in December 2019, when BOLDplanning returns for another COOP Workshop. Until then, keep up the great work!
Pictured is Alicia Hilk, Carver County Emergency Management Specialist; BOLDplanning representative, Brittney Whatley, CBCP; and Kelly Miller, Carver County Emergency Management Deputy Director.
