Homeland Security: Management of First Responder Grants in the National Capital Region Reflects the Need for Coordinated Planning and Performance Goals

In 2004, GAO recommended that the National Capital Region (NCR) develop a strategic plan to establish and monitor the achievement of regional goals and priorities for emergency preparedness and response. In September 2006, the NCR approved a strategic plan that included all six characteristics GAO considers desirable for a regional homeland security strategy. The plan included regional priorities and presented the rationale for the goals and related objectives and initiatives, which could be used to guide the use of federal emergency preparedness funds. This included information on how the plan addresses national priorities and targeted capabilities from the National Preparedness Goal, an Emergency Management Accreditation Program assessment of local and regional preparedness and emergency management capabilities against recognized national standards, and DHS's Nationwide Plan Review of emergency plans. The plan structure was more streamlined, containing an overview, core plan, and detailed appendix with information on factors such as risks, costs, and roles and responsibilities.