Federal approval ensures eligibility for project grants under FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs
REDONDO BEACH, California (July 16, 2025) – A Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) created by Beach Cities Health District (BCHD) with extensive feedback from the public has been approved by the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA). The approval ensures BCHD’s eligibility for project grants under FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs until June 26, 2030, at which time BCHD will have to submit an updated plan for another five-year period.
FEMA’s action clears the way for BCHD to apply for critical grants through a variety of federal programs, including the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), HMGP Post-Fire, and Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund (STORM RLF).
“This approval demonstrates BCHD’s on-going commitment to hazard mitigation and keeping the public safe,” said BCHD CEO Tom Bakaly, “The District takes seriously its responsibility to identify mitigation goals and actions to reduce and eliminate long-term risk to BCHD property and community members throughout the Beach Cities from the impacts of future hazards and disasters.”
Bakaly said BCHD’s commitment to hazard mitigation is a big part of why the BCHD Board voted to vacate the building at 514 S. Prospect Avenue by 2027.
The 283-page LHMP was borne out of a nearly nine-month effort that began in October, 2024 and included not only professional risk analysis, but an extensive public survey asking local residents about their concerns regarding hazards in the Beach Cities, their personal experiences with these hazards, and thoughts about what mitigation projects BCHD should focus on to make the community more resilient.
Ultimately, the plan aims to identify and reduce the impacts of natural hazards – everything from flooding and wildfires to earthquakes and droughts – that can affect our homes, businesses, and overall safety. It will serve as a guide for decision makers as they commit BCHD resources to minimize the effects of natural hazards. The plan is intended to integrate with existing planning mechanisms such as building and zoning regulations, long-range planning mechanisms, and environmental planning.
“The Local Hazard Mitigation Plan is an important component of keeping our community safe, and provides a perfect opportunity to remind the public to have their own emergency plan that includes preparation of an emergency kit, plans for an evacuation and how they will communicate with friends and family during an emergency,” Bakaly said. “The recent wildfires are a stark reminder that being prepared saves lives.”
