Several people from local agencies will gather today for the first meeting of the Marion County Local Emergency Planning Committee. Emergency Management Coordinator Jeff Anderson says the committee is tasked with planning procedures for emergencies regarding hazardous materials. The group includes local fire chiefs, law enforcement, elected officials, health professionals, media, and more.

Anderson explains 25 facilities in Marion County are considered mandatory reporters to the Department of Health because of the amount and/or type of chemicals they use. He says the committee will be involved in looking over the database of chemicals in the county, planning training exercises and gathering supplies to help mitigate any possible dangers that may arise. Anderson adds that with more groups of people involved, he hopes that the planning procedures will continue to improve.