Statewide Mutual Aid Agreement Signed

Kentucky League of Cities (KLC) leaders and member representatives gathered in Frankfort Wednesday to sign the long-awaited Statewide Emergency Management Mutual Aid and Assistance Agreement. KLC has been working on the agreement with emergency response personnel and community leaders since 2020.

The agreement enables local governments to provide mutual aid to communities across the commonwealth in times of disasters such as flooding or tornadoes. Aid can also be rendered for communities that experience a major fire, collision, or any other event that significantly strains community resources. The agreement will streamline the process of providing aid while still qualifying for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recovery assistance.

The new statewide agreement allows any city, county, fire protection district, ambulance service, or any other type of first responding organization to receive FEMA reimbursement for any services provided. All local entities are encouraged to become a party to the agreement to help ensure statewide availability of mutual aid and assistance to disaster or emergency-impacted communities as quickly, efficiently, and effectively as possible.

KLC Executive Director/CEO J.D. Chaney said the new agreement is a critical tool for cities across the commonwealth. “The Statewide Emergency Management Mutual Aid and Assistance Agreement gives cities a reliable, coordinated way to support each other during emergencies,” said Chaney. “This has been a long time coming, and it reflects the strong partnerships we’ve built across all levels of government. We’ve all seen how devastating disasters can be — now, cities have a clear framework to get the help they need when every minute counts.”

Download a copy of the agreement here. For more information, contact KLC Director of Municipal Law Morgain Patterson.