Hillsborough Township Employees Participate in Business Continuity Drill

Hillsborough Township employees recently participated in a comprehensive drill organized by the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) in a proactive effort to ensure the continuity of operations during emergencies. 

The drill was conducted without advance notice to employees, providing an unscripted test of the Township’s readiness. Upon arrival for work at the Municipal Building, key personnel were met by Township Administrator Anthony Ferrera and OEM Director John Sheridan and transported to Ann Van Middlesworth Park, where they engaged in remote work scenarios for approximately 1.5 hours. 

Department Heads use remote-ready laptops for daily work, and the policy is to bring them home each night. Each department is also equipped with MiFi wireless hotspots to use during temporary internet outages or emergencies. Providing employees with these tools ensures employees can carry out the daily essential functions of the Township in any situation.

The drill, designed to simulate potential emergencies, allowed township employees to test their ability to work remotely and maintain essential services during challenging conditions. The exercise was conducted smoothly and efficiently under the guidance of OEM Director John Sheridan and Information Technology Director Richard Granatir.

Even Mayor Shawn Lipani got to test his ability to adapt to changing conditions when he made a last-minute adjustment to his schedule to attend a meeting unexpectedly relocated to the park. Mayor Lipani expressed his support for the Township's commitment to preparedness. "This exercise exemplifies Hillsborough Township's dedication to ensuring the safety and continued functioning of essential services, even in the face of unforeseen challenges,” stated Mayor Lipani. “Hillsborough Township remains committed to ongoing training and preparedness efforts to better serve and protect the community in times of crisis.”

This unannoun ed drill serves as a valuable test of Hillsborough Township’s emergency readiness, reinforcing the importance of flexibility and adaptability in times of crisis. It underscores the Township’s dedication to ensuring the uninterrupted provision of essential services to the community under any circumstances. 

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