The County of Sonoma is soliciting this request for proposal for qualified consultants to conduct a gap analysis and feasibility study to improve emergency communications for community members with Access and Functional Needs (AFN). The Department of Emergency Management (DEM) leads and coordinates major countywide programs, including community disaster preparedness, public education, response planning, alert and warning, incident response management, continuity of operations, mitigation, and short-term recovery. DEM will be conducting a comprehensive gap analysis and feasibility study to identify existing shortfalls in emergency-related communications for AFN populations and intends to contract with qualified emergency planning consultants to assist with the project. The purpose of this project is to identify realistic, community-specific solutions to improve emergency communications and outreach for individuals with Access and Functional Needs. The AFN Communications Gap Analysis and Feasibility Study will build on lessons learned and leverage local, regional, and national best practices. The project will emphasize equitable solutions that enhance emergency communication systems for underserved, low-to-moderate income (LMI), and protected class populations in Sonoma County.
