The Washington County Planning Commission held a regular meeting on January 27, 2025, where several key topics were discussed, including emergency communication strategies and community resilience following recent disasters.

One of the most significant discussions centered on enhancing emergency communication capabilities in the county. A resident from Damascus shared insights from their experience obtaining a technician's class license for ham radio communications. They emphasized the importance of being prepared for emergencies, noting that having licensed individuals equipped with ham radios could greatly improve communication during crises. The resident encouraged others to pursue similar licenses and mentioned the availability of GMRS radios, which can be easily obtained through the FCC for a nominal fee. This initiative aims to ensure that residents can maintain communication in the event of emergencies, particularly in areas where traditional communication infrastructure may fail.

The commission members expressed support for this initiative, suggesting that it could be beneficial to present the idea to the board for further consideration. The resident also highlighted the formation of a local ham radio chapter in Damascus, which aims to engage more community members in emergency preparedness.

Additionally, the meeting acknowledged the recent challenges faced by Damascus due to severe weather events. The presence of the Vice President of the United States in the area was noted as a positive development, with hopes for federal assistance to aid recovery efforts. The commission members expressed optimism about the potential for support from state and federal officials to help the community rebuild.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of community preparedness and resilience in the face of emergencies, with a focus on improving communication strategies and seeking assistance for recovery efforts. The commission plans to continue discussions on these topics in future meetings.