Cook County, Illinois: Disaster Preparedness and Economic Development

This report examines Cook County's approach to disaster recovery and resilience, with a focus on strategies for responding to and recovering from natural disasters. It also explores the economic development challenges faced by the county and how these challenges intersect with disaster recovery planning. Finally, the report draws upon best practices from other counties in the US to offer insights for Cook County.

Disaster Recovery and Resilience Plan

While a formal "Cook County Disaster Recovery and Resilience Plan" document was not found during the information gathering, Cook County appears to have a framework in place for disaster recovery and resilience¹. FEMA's mission is to help people before, during, and after disasters³. The Cook County Department of Planning and Development (DPD) received $83,616,000 in Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funding to address severe flooding that occurred in the spring of 2013⁴. This funding was used to support the design and engineering costs related to stormwater issues in municipalities and unincorporated areas of suburban Cook County⁴. As a CDBG-DR funding recipient, the DPD was invited by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to apply for additional disaster resources through the National Disaster Resilience Competition (NDRC)¹. Although the application was not ultimately funded, the process facilitated new collaborations and strengthened existing partnerships¹.

In December 2024, Cook County allocated $2.5 million through the Cook County Disaster Response and Recovery Fund to support suburban municipalities impacted by severe storms and tornadoes that occurred in July 2024⁵. This allocation will assist communities with recovery efforts.

To help residents prepare for floods, Cook County provides the following guidance: avoid floodwaters, be aware of areas where water has receded as roadways may have weakened, avoid downed power lines, return home only when authorities say it is safe, discard potentially contaminated food, and check on sewage systems⁶.

Securing State and Federal Disaster Relief Resources

Cook County has access to various state and federal disaster relief resources⁶. The primary source of federal funding is FEMA's Individuals and Households Program, which provides financial assistance to individuals and families affected by disasters⁷. To access this assistance, residents must register with FEMA online or by phone⁸. A FEMA inspector will then assess the damage and determine eligibility for assistance⁷.

In addition to FEMA assistance, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest disaster loans to renters, homeowners, business owners, and non-profit organizations that have suffered losses due to a disaster⁷. These loans have limits on the amount that can be borrowed, varying by category⁷.

Public Involvement in Disaster Recovery and Resilience Planning

Cook County is committed to involving the public in disaster recovery and resilience planning. The Cook County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan, which identifies common threats and hazards faced by the county, is updated every five years with public input². This plan ensures that the county qualifies for federal funding before and after a disaster occurs, identifies common threats and hazards, develops mitigation strategies, develops intergovernmental partnerships, and increases public knowledge and preparedness².

Risk Assessments and Disaster Training Exercises

Cook County conducts various risk assessments and disaster training exercises to enhance its preparedness and response capabilities. The Cook County Emergency Management and Regional Security (EMRS) offers a training and exercise schedule focused on active threats and hazards outlined in the county⁹. These training programs are designed to help municipalities increase their resilience in preparation, prevention, response, mitigation, and recovery⁹. The EMRS also works with municipalities to identify training gaps and develop plans to address them⁹.

To further support residents in preparing for emergencies, Cook County advises that they build an emergency supply kit for their home, office, and car¹⁰. This kit should include essential items such as food, water, first-aid supplies, and important documents¹⁰.

Examples of training programs offered by the EMRS include:

Economic Development Challenges

Cook County faces several economic development challenges, many of which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic consequences.

Financial Hardship and Inequality: A significant portion of Cook County residents are struggling financially. 35% of households live below the ALICE Threshold or in poverty, struggling to afford basic necessities such as housing, childcare, food, transportation, and healthcare¹¹. This hardship has been increasing since the pandemic, even with wage increases, due to factors like inflation and rising costs¹¹. This financial strain is particularly acute in the southern and western regions of the county, which already faced high levels of unemployment, declining property values, and limited access to essential services before the pandemic¹².

Budgetary Constraints: Cook County has faced budget shortfalls in recent years, including a projected gap of $218.2 million in 2025¹³. This fiscal pressure limits the county's ability to invest in economic development programs and social services that could alleviate financial hardship and promote economic opportunity.

Tax Policies and Housing Affordability: Rising income and property taxes have contributed to housing affordability challenges in Cook County¹⁴. These tax policies can make it more difficult for residents to find affordable housing and reduce returns on housing investment, potentially hindering economic mobility.

Regional Competition: Cook County faces competition from other counties in the region for resources and investment¹⁵. This competition can create a "zero-sum game" dynamic that may hinder regional collaboration and limit overall economic growth.

Leveraging ARPA Funding for Disaster Recovery and Economic Development

Cook County is taking steps to address its economic development challenges through various programs and initiatives, with a significant focus on leveraging funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

Economic Recovery and Community Development: Cook County has allocated ARPA funds to support economic recovery and community development¹⁶. This includes investments in small businesses, workforce development, affordable housing, and infrastructure¹². The county aims to avoid duplication of resources and maximize ARPA funding by leveraging existing efforts and infrastructure¹⁸.

Specific ARPA-funded Initiatives:

• Industry-sector strategies: The county is developing strategies to support key industries such as manufacturing, food processing, transportation, distribution, and logistics¹⁸.
• Workforce training and development: Cook County is investing in workforce development programs to provide residents with the skills needed for in-demand jobs¹².
• Guaranteed income pilot program: The county has established a guaranteed income pilot program to provide financial assistance to low-income families¹².
• Medical debt relief initiative: Cook County is investing in a medical debt relief initiative to help residents struggling with medical debt¹².
• Small business support: The county provides grants and other resources to support small businesses, including those owned by minorities and women¹⁷.
• Affordable housing: Cook County is working to expand access to affordable housing through various programs and initiatives¹⁹.
• Infrastructure investments: The county is investing in infrastructure projects to improve transportation, water and sewer systems, and other essential services¹².

Integrating Economic Development and Disaster Recovery Planning

Cook County recognizes the importance of integrating economic development and disaster recovery planning. The county's ARPA recovery plan emphasizes the need for inclusive recovery and growth that reduces disparities and improves economic opportunities for all residents¹⁸. This includes supporting businesses, expanding workforce development efforts, and investing in affordable housing and other services that help lift residents out of poverty¹⁸.

The county also aims to target ARPA funding to support its policy priorities, which include equity, engagement, and excellence¹⁸. By aligning disaster recovery efforts with economic development goals, Cook County can promote a more resilient and equitable economy.

Best Practices from Other Counties

Several best practices in disaster recovery and economic development can be gleaned from other counties in the US:

• Pre-disaster recovery planning: Developing a pre-disaster recovery plan provides a framework for managing resources and coordinating recovery activities²⁰. This plan should include strategies for restoring housing, rebuilding infrastructure, supporting businesses, and addressing social and economic needs. For example, the plan should outline how to provide temporary housing, facilitate access to financial assistance, and support the recovery of critical infrastructure.
• Economic resilience: Integrating economic development strategies, sustainability principles, and hazard mitigation planning can enhance economic resilience²¹. This includes identifying vulnerabilities and bolstering capacities that can help communities withstand and recover from economic disruptions. For instance, this could involve diversifying the local economy, promoting sustainable land use practices, and investing in infrastructure that can withstand natural hazards.
• Collaboration and partnerships: Engaging with stakeholders, including local governments, businesses, non-profit organizations, and community groups, is crucial for effective disaster recovery and economic development²². This collaboration can help ensure that recovery efforts are coordinated, resources are used efficiently, and the needs of all community members are addressed.
• Public-private partnerships: Leveraging public-private partnerships can help mobilize resources and expertise for disaster recovery and economic development initiatives. By partnering with the private sector, counties can access additional funding, technical expertise, and innovative solutions to support recovery and resilience.
• Data-driven decision-making: Utilizing data and information to assess risks, identify needs, and track progress is essential for effective planning and implementation. This includes collecting data on hazard risks, economic vulnerabilities, and community needs to inform decision-making and ensure that resources are allocated effectively.

Conclusion

Cook County has a framework in place for disaster recovery and resilience, although a formal, comprehensive plan document was not identified. The county has access to state and federal resources for disaster relief and is actively involved in risk assessments and disaster training exercises. However, Cook County faces significant economic development challenges, including financial hardship, unemployment, and budget constraints. The county is addressing these challenges through various programs and initiatives, including the use of ARPA funding and investments in workforce development, small business support, and affordable housing.

To further enhance its disaster preparedness and economic resilience, Cook County should consider the following recommendations:

• Develop a comprehensive Disaster Recovery and Resilience Plan: This plan should outline specific strategies for responding to and recovering from various types of disasters, including natural hazards and public health emergencies.
• Strengthen collaboration and partnerships: Foster stronger relationships with local municipalities, community organizations, and the private sector to enhance coordination and resource sharing.
• Integrate economic development and disaster recovery planning: Ensure that disaster recovery efforts are aligned with long-term economic development goals to promote a more resilient and equitable economy. For example, investing in workforce development can not only help residents find jobs but also provide a skilled labor pool for rebuilding efforts after a disaster.
• Invest in pre-disaster mitigation: Prioritizing investments in hazard mitigation measures to reduce the risk of future disasters and minimize their impact on the community and economy. This can include measures such as flood control infrastructure, building codes that enhance resilience, and public education campaigns to raise awareness of disaster risks.
• Promote economic resilience: Implement strategies to diversify the economy, support small businesses, and enhance workforce development to build a more resilient and adaptable economy. A diversified economy is less vulnerable to disruptions from disasters, and a skilled workforce can adapt to changing economic conditions and contribute to recovery efforts.
• Learn from best practices: Draw upon lessons learned from other counties and incorporate best practices into Cook County's disaster recovery and economic development strategies. This can involve studying successful recovery efforts in other counties, sharing knowledge and resources, and adapting best practices to the specific needs and context of Cook County.

By implementing these recommendations, Cook County can further strengthen its ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters while promoting a thriving and equitable economy for all residents. Investing in disaster resilience is not only about protecting lives and property but also about fostering long-term economic growth and stability. By taking a proactive and integrated approach, Cook County can create a more resilient and prosperous future for all its residents.

Works cited

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