Minutes
Room 108: Malden City Hall, 215 Pleasant St. Malden, MA,
Wednesday May 27th, 2026
1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at approximately 4:00 PM.
2. Approval of Minutes
The committee determined that approval of the previous meeting minutes would be deferred until the next meeting due to members not having sufficient time to review them. The previous and current meeting minutes will be distributed together for approval at the next meeting.
3. Emergency Activations
There were no emergency activations during the previous month and no anticipated activations or planned emergency activities for the upcoming month.
4. CERT Team Report
Louis Matnog reported that there was no significant update from the CERT Team. He continues to communicate with team members, although some members have not responded to recent outreach efforts. An update will be provided at the next meeting.
5. Emergency Management Grant (EMPG) Update
Elaina Savino provided an update on the emergency management grant application. The application was completed and submitted prior to the June 1 deadline with assistance from MEMA and submitted by John on behalf of the committee.
Elaina noted that this year's grant program differs significantly from previous EMPG grants and includes more restrictive eligibility requirements. Funding may only be used for activities and equipment directly related to emergency management and cannot support police, fire, or other departmental operations. Matching funds are also subject to stricter guidelines.
Committee members agreed to continue discussing potential eligible purchases and develop a spending plan by July, pending grant approval.
6. Member Reports
Fire Department
No report was provided.
Public Health
Laura Vlasuk reported that Public Health participated in three emergency preparedness drills through the state system since the last meeting. Activities included:
- Updating emergency contact information;
- Reviewing and updating the Emergency Dispensing Site plan; and
- Participating in a statewide emergency communication test.
Communications
Elaina Savino reported that the primary focus since the previous meeting had been completion and submission of the emergency management grant application. No additional communications updates were provided.
Department of Public Works
No major updates were reported. The department continues to utilize electronic message boards for traffic management, special events, and traffic diversions throughout the City. The department is also awaiting the appointment of a new DPW Director.
Schools
No report was available. The committee will seek an update from school representatives regarding summer plans and any emergency management needs once the school year concludes.
Public Facilities
Eric Rubin reported that Public Facilities continues to update and maintain generators, emergency equipment, fire safety systems, and sprinkler systems throughout municipal buildings.
7. New Business
No new business was discussed.
8. Old Business
No old business was discussed.
9. General Discussion
Members were reminded to continue utilizing the committee's group text thread for emergency communications and coordination between meetings.
10. Adjournment
Louis Matnog made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Eric Rubin seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously, and the meeting adjourned at approximately 4:13 PM.