Homeland Security Advisory Council FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
When was HSAC established?
HSAC was founded by the Los Angeles and Orange County Sheriffs shortly after 9/11 with the support of key private sector leaders.
What is HSAC's Mission?
HSAC's mission is to improve regional homeland security and emergency response capabilities in the greater Los Angeles/Orange County metropolitan areas through the creation of public-private partnership.
What are HSAC's Initiatives?
Business Response Network
Mass Medical Dispensing – Strategic National Stockpile
Business Operations Center
Liability Protections
New Technology
Why do we need this kind of public-private partnership?
Approximately 14 million people reside in Los Angeles and Orange counties collectively and the region is prone to natural disasters and terrorist attacks. Furthermore, the presence of key strategic infrastructure in the area, like the Port of Los Angeles, makes the security of Los Angeles and Orange Counties vital to the health of the national economy.
While government has the primary responsibility for protecting us from the risks of terrorism and natural disasters, it lacks the resources and ability to do it alone. Although the private sector owns and operates over eighty percent of the nation’s critical infrastructure, most jurisdictions have not effectively incorporated it into their emergency preparedness and response plans. Creating links ahead of time and building the private sector into the existing government structure creates new capabilities that enhance our community’s ability to prevent, respond to, and recover from a disaster.
Why HSAC?
HSAC represents over eighty senior executives from business, government and academia, all of whom are influential leaders and have a demonstrated commitment to homeland security. The membership includes executives from major financial institutions, media outlets, retail facilities, real estate, development and telecommunications companies, utilities, hospitals, and universities. Furthermore, HSAC works in a close partnership with the primary law enforcement and emergency management agencies in the southern California region and at the State level.
Did HSAC play a role in the October 2007 California wildfires?
Yes. During the October 2007 wildfires, HSAC / BENS served as the State's private sector liaison in the regional and state operations centers. HSAC played an important role connecting private sector resources to needs and generally acting as a bridge between the public and private sectors. HSAC has a formal private sector liaison role in the Los Angeles County Emergency Operations Center. This experience validated HSAC’s unique ability to facilitate public-private partnership at an operational level during a crisis.
How can I get involved in HSAC?
To get involved with HSAC, contact the Executive Director, Lauren Armistead, at (213) 346-9422 or LArmistead@hsac.bens.org or send an inquiry to 333 S. Grand Avenue, Suite 1500, Los Angeles CA 90071.