Resolution Declaring the Existence of a Local Emergency and Reaffirming Proclamation No. 2026-01.

Westminster City Council SUBJECT Title Resolution Declaring the Existence of a Local Emergency and Reaffirming Proclamation No. 2026-01. End From: Christine Cordon, City Manager Requested by: Administration Prepared by: Christine Cordon, City Manager ____________________________________________________________ RECOMMENDED ACTION Recommendation Adopt a Resolution entitled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WESTMINSTER, CALIFORNIA, RATIFYING PROCLAMATION NO. 2026-01 DECLARING THE EXISTENCE OF A LOCAL EMERGENCY ARISING FROM THE HAZARDOUS CHEMICAL INCIDENT AT 12122 WESTERN AVENUE, GARDEN GROVE, AND AUTHORIZING EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE ACTIONS." end BACKGROUND On May 22, 2026, City Manager Christine Cordon, acting in the capacity of the city's Director of Emergency Services, declared a local emergency (Attachment 1) as authorized by Government Code Section 8630 and Westminster Municipal Code section 2.48.060(a) in response to a hazardous materials incident - "Western Incident" - in the neighboring city of Garden Grove. Per Government Code Section 8630(b), the City Council must adopt a resolution within seven days to ratify the local emergency proclamation, Proclamation No. 2026-01. Government Code Section 8630(c) states that a City Council "shall review the need for continuing the local emergency at least once every 60 days until the governing body terminates the local emergency." Declaration of a local emergency allows the City to: * Activate its emergency operations plan; * Use emergency purchasing and contracting procedures; * Coordinate with county/state agencies; * Issue local orders if needed; and * Formally request outside help. FISCAL IMPACT None. LEGAL REVIEW The City Attorney's Office has reviewed as to form. CONCLUSION Based on the evacuation orders resulting from the "Western Incident," the need for resources and coordinated efforts warranted a declaration of local emergency. If the City Council chooses to not ratify the local emergency, the City will not have access to resources, funding, or any other assistance as it relates to this incident. All costs incurred will not be eligible for reimbursement if funds become available. ATTACHMENTS 1. Draft Resolution to Ratify Proclamation 2026-01 2. Proclamation 2026-01 REVIEWED BY Erin Backs, Finance Director City Attorney's Office Christine Cordon, City Manager