SECTION 5: CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT
survey, local officials were also asked to rate their jurisdiction’s specific capabilities. The survey instrument thereby not only helps accurately assess the degree of local capability, but it also serves as a good source of introspection for counties and local jurisdictions that want to improve their capabilities. Identified gaps, weaknesses, or conflicts can be recast as opportunities for specific actions to be proposed as part of the mitigation strategy. The information provided in response to the survey questionnaire was incorporated into a database for further analysis. A general scoring methodology was then applied to quantify each jurisdiction’s overall capability. According to the scoring system, each capability indicator was assigned a point value based on its relevance to hazard mitigation. Additional points were added based on the jurisdiction’s self- assessment of their own planning and regulatory capability, administrative and technical capability, fiscal capability, education and outreach capability, and political capability. Using this scoring methodology, a total score and an overall capability rating of “High,” “Moderate,” or “Limited” could be determined according to the total number of points received. These classifications are designed to provide nothing more than a general assessment of local government capability. In combination with the narrative responses provided by local officials, the results of this capability assessment provide critical information for developing an effective and meaningful mitigation strategy. 5.3 CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT FINDINGS The findings of the capability assessment are summarized in this plan to provide insight into the relevant capacity of the Wake County Planning Area to implement hazard mitigation activities. All information is based upon the input provided by local government officials through the Local Capability Self-Assessment. 5.3.1 Planning and Regulatory Capability Planning and regulatory capability is based on the implementation of plans, ordinances, and programs that demonstrate a local jurisdiction’s commitment to guiding and managing growth, development, and redevelopment in a responsible manner, while maintaining the general welfare of the community. It includes emergency response and mitigation planning, comprehensive land use planning, and transportation planning. Regulatory capability also includes the enforcement of zoning or subdivision ordinances and building codes that regulate how land is developed and structures are built, as well as protecting environmental, historic, and cultural resources in the community. Although some conflicts can arise, these planning initiatives generally present significant opportunities to integrate hazard mitigation principles and practices into the local decision-making process. This assessment is designed to provide a general overview of the key planning and regulatory tools or programs in place or under development for the Wake County planning area, along with their potential effect on loss reduction. This information will help identify opportunities to address gaps, weaknesses, or conflicts with other initiatives and integrate the implementation of this plan with existing planning mechanisms where appropriate. Table 5.1 provides a summary of the relevant local plans, ordinances, and programs already in place or under development for the Wake County planning area. A checkmark ( √ ) indicates that the given item is currently in place and being implemented. An asterisk (*) indicates that the given item is currently being developed for future implementation. A plus sign (+) indicates that a jurisdiction is covered for that item under a county-implemented version. Each of these local plans, ordinances, and programs should be considered available mechanisms for incorporating the requirements of the Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Wake County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan 2019
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