The initiation of war by the U.S. government against Iraq may raise increased concerns among Akron residents about our own security.

We are now - - and have for many months - - been in constant contact with officials of the federal government, the FBI, and the Department of Homeland Security. Our safety forces regularly receive briefings, and are in line to get specific information that would cause us to increase our level of vigilance.

Akron has been well-prepared for any emergency, even before the events of September 11.

Our Emergency Preparedness Plan has been recognized by federal officials for its high quality. Last October, we conducted a major training exercise that involved our police, fire, and ems units; the Akron hospitals and private ambulance services; and city and county officials.

We have in place well-conceived plans of mutual aid among communities within Summit County. In January, I signed a memorandum of understanding with the mayors of Ohio’s 5 largest cities, so that we can provide sophisticated equipment and trained personnel if any of us should have an emergency.

This morning, I met with the managers of Akron’s safety, service, and law departments. This top level cabinet reviewed our present procedures with me, and continues a commitment to continuous improvement.

We are prepared to activate our Emergency Operations Plan in the event that becomes necessary. If we go to a Red Alert, citizens will find increased restrictions to access and a more visible security presence.

Our safety forces are equipped with the latest in safety masks and clothing. As you might expect, there has been a great demand for this new equipment, but even before 9-11, Akron evaluated the need for such equipment, and key units of our police and fire departments have specialized protective gear they would need to respond to a chemical or biological event, and we are in line to receive equipment for every firefighter and officer.

We have implemented heightened security in all city buildings over the last year. All employees are required to wear distinctive badges, and many departments have new secured entrances that require codes that match the electronically-coded access badges.

We continue to meet with representatives of downtown buildings, the University of Akron, the Akron Public Schools, and our hospitals - - each of whom is part of our security network.

Our police department does an excellent job of moving traffic out of downtown after any major event, but we are refining an evacuation plan that will allow our security partners to be more involved in the event an evacuation is ever necessary.

And we are in contact with members of Akron’s Islamic Community. It’s unfortunate that some citizens may respond to the national emergency by vandalizing places of worship. We will do our best to protect the interests of all Akron residents.

(Evacuation plans)