PORTSMOUTH — The Town of Portsmouth is seeking feedback on its draft Hazard Mitigation Plan that is being updated in accordance with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) guidelines.  

The Town Council is holding a public hearing on the plan on Monday, Aug. 27, at Town Hall. The meeting begins at 7 p.m.

The plan recommends actions and policies for the town intended to reduce the social and economic losses resulting from natural hazards. These losses include loss of life, destruction of property, damage to critical infrastructure and facilities, loss/interruption of jobs, loss/damage to businesses, and loss/damage to significant historical structures. 

Hazardous events that affect Portsmouth include tropical storms, nor’easters, flooding, snow storms and high winds. Upon FEMA approval of the plan, the town will continue to be eligible for certain types of future hazard mitigation and post-disaster grant funding.

Public feedback on the draft plan is encouraged. The draft plan is posted on www.portsmouthri.com with paper copies available in the town clerk’s office, the Portsmouth Planning Department and the Portsmouth Free Public Library. The Portsmouth Police, Fire and Emergency Management departments’ social media sites have links to the draft plan, which has also been sent to neighboring community planning departments for comment. 

All interested parties should review the draft plan and submit comments by Monday, Aug. 27, by contacting Town Planner Gary Crosby at gcrosby@portsmouthri.com or 401/643-0332.

Comments may also be made at the public hearing later that night.