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For Galveston County, the public safety regulations cover a variety of areas, including parks and recreational facilities, food service establishments, and emergency management practices. Here are some key points and resources:

Parks and Recreational Facilities: The rules and regulations for county parks include restrictions on hours of use, smoking, glass containers, and motor vehicle operation within park boundaries. These rules ensure safety and proper maintenance of public spaces. More details can be found on the Galveston County Parks & Cultural Services page.

Food Service Establishments: The Galveston County Health District oversees the permitting and inspection of food service establishments to prevent disease transmission through food. This includes guidelines for obtaining permits, food safety tips, and how to prepare for health inspections. You can find comprehensive information and relevant applications on the Galveston County Health District's Food Service page.

Emergency Management: The county’s emergency management encompass public safety protocols, and emergency operations plans. The Galveston County Office of Emergency Management (GCOEM) coordinates these efforts, providing resources such as evacuation maps, preparedness guides, and public safety announcements. More details are available on the GCOEM website.

These resources provide a framework for ensuring public safety and preparedness in Galveston County. For the most up-to-date and detailed information, refer to the specific county websites and official documents.

Guidelines for Public Information Act (PIA) Requests

Understanding Your Rights

The Texas Public Information Act grants the public the right to access government records. Galveston County is committed to providing such information promptly and efficiently.

Preparing Your Request

Your request must be in writing and should include specific details about the information you are seeking to help the public information officer locate the records efficiently.

Submitting Your Request

Requests can be submitted via email, mail, or in person. For Galveston County, you can send your request to Veronica VanHorn in the Legal department. Include the necessary contact details: an email address and mailing address for Veronica VanHorn.

Response Time

The county has ten business days to respond to your request. They will either provide the information, inform you of any exceptions, or explain why they need more time to fulfill the request.

Costs and Fees

There may be charges for copies of records, especially for large or complex requests. The public information officer will inform you of any applicable fees.

Exceptions to Disclosure

Some information may be exempt from disclosure under the PIA. If your request includes such information, you will be informed of the specific exceptions that apply.

Contact for PIAs:

Ms. Veronica Van Horn Legal Services Coordinator

Galveston County

722 Moody Avenue, Second Floor Galveston, Texas 77550

Guidelines for Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests

FOIA Overview

The FOIA allows the public to request access to records from any federal agency. It is often described as the law that keeps citizens in the know about their government.

Submitting a FOIA Request

FOIA requests should be in writing and clearly describe the information you seek. Each federal agency has its own procedures, so check the specific agency's website for details. For federal records related to emergency management, you might contact FEMA. Include the necessary contact details for the FEMA FOIA Office: an email address and mailing address.

Processing Time

Agencies typically have 20 business days to respond to a FOIA request, though this can be extended in certain circumstances.

Costs and Fees

Fees may apply for searching, reviewing, and copying records. Agencies will inform you of any fees before processing your request.

Exemptions

FOIA includes nine exemptions that protect certain records from disclosure, such as those related to national security, personal privacy, and law enforcement.

Contact Information for FEMA FOIA Requests

FEMA FOIA Office

For submitting FOIA requests to FEMA, you can contact the FEMA FOIA Office with the following details:

Email: FEMA-FOIA@fema.dhs.gov
Mailing Address: Federal Emergency Management Agency, FOIA Officer, Records Management Division, 500 C Street, SW, Washington, D.C. 20472

Media Requests

Federal and State Laws

Federal Laws:

Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act:
- This Act provides the legal framework for federal disaster response activities. It outlines the process for declaring disasters and the types of assistance provided by the federal government.
- Read the full text of the Stafford Act
Homeland Security Act of 2002:
- This Act established the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and outlines its responsibilities, including emergency management and response.
- Read the Homeland Security Act
Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act (PKEMRA):
- This Act was passed to improve the federal government's response to disasters following Hurricane Katrina, enhancing FEMA's capabilities and responsibilities.
- Read the PKEMRA
National Incident Management System (NIMS):
- NIMS provides a systematic, proactive approach to guide departments and agencies at all levels of government, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector to work seamlessly to prevent, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate the effects of incidents.
- Read more about NIMS

Texas State Laws:

Texas Disaster Act of 1975:
- This Act establishes the state’s emergency management system, including the responsibilities of the Governor and local governments in disaster response and recovery.
- Read the Texas Disaster Act
Texas Government Code, Chapter 418:
- This chapter outlines the state's emergency management framework, detailing the powers and duties of the Governor, state agencies, and local governments.
- Read Texas Government Code, Chapter 418
Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 778:
- This chapter covers the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, an interstate agreement for mutual aid among states during disasters and emergencies.
- Read Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 778

Declarations

Tropical Storm Francine 2024 Declaration

Tropical Storm Francine is currently approaching Galveston County, TX, with heavy rainfall, strong winds, and coastal flooding expected to impact the area. Local authorities have already taken action, issuing a voluntary evacuation for Bolivar Peninsula due to the potential dangers of storm surge and high tides. The Galveston County Office of Emergency Management (GCOEM) is closely monitoring the storm and coordinating with local and state agencies to ensure preparedness and response efforts are in place. Residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions as the storm continues to develop.

Tropical Storm Francine 2024 Voluntary Evacuation Order

A voluntary evacuation has been issued for Bolivar Peninsula in anticipation of Tropical Storm Francine. Residents are encouraged to leave the area due to expected high tides, storm surge, and potential flooding. Local authorities are urging caution, as emergency services may become limited during the storm. For more information, visit GCOEM.org.

Tropical Storm Beryl 2024 Declaration

Hurricane Beryl has significantly impacted Galveston County, TX. The hurricane brought heavy rainfall, powerful winds, and coastal flooding, resulting in widespread damage across the area. Local authorities responded promptly, with the Galveston County Office of Emergency Management (GCOEM) coordinating efforts with various agencies to address the situation.

Tropical Storm Alberto 2024 Declaration

Tropical Storm Alberto made a significant impact on Galveston County, TX. The storm brought heavy rainfall, strong winds, and coastal flooding, resulting in widespread damage. Local authorities were quick to respond, with the Galveston County Office of Emergency Management (GCOEM) coordinating efforts with various agencies. Recovery efforts are ongoing.