Active Shooter Emergency Action Planning Project

Washington County seeks to engage a qualified consultant to manage the creation of a holistic, multi-disciplinary Active Shooter Emergency Action Plan that adheres to the planning process developed by the Department of Homeland Security. The project goal is to create a plan that integrates both prevention of and response to violent attacks targeting County workforce and facilities.

Washington County has nearly 2,400 employees who serve a community of over 600,000 residents. Our facilities encompass around 1.8 million square feet spread over 35 locations, including the County Courthouse, the Elections Division and the Public Services Building, where the Board of County Commissioners meet regularly.

Many of these spaces could be considered “targets of opportunity” for pre-planned violent attacks. The scope and complexity of providing a safe and secure environment while remaining open and welcoming for employees and members of the public is extremely challenging, especially in light of an increased nationwide trend of active shooter events, as reported by the FBI . Our challenge to provide a safe and secure environment while also being prepared for and able to recover from horrific acts of violence requires thoughtful planning and coordination among many county departments and allied agencies.

Washington County was awarded a State Homeland Security Project (SHSP) grant to hire a contractor to develop this Active Shooter Emergency Action Plan.