The Village of Mahomet Board of Trustees is set to discuss and potentially approve an updated intergovernmental agreement with the Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network (IPWMAN) at their meeting on February 11, 2025. The agreement aims to formalize and strengthen the village’s participation in a network that provides emergency assistance between government agencies.The IPWMAN agreement facilitates a system where government entities can offer and receive aid during natural disasters, man-made emergencies, or other situations that exceed a single agency’s capacity. According to board documents, the existing agreement, last established in April 2014, requires updating to reflect changes within IPWMAN.

Key Updates to the IPWMAN Agreement

The updated agreement includes three primary revisions:

• Clarification of Aid Scope: Mutual aid is not just for emergencies but includes day-to-day operations and training opportunities.
• Management Transition: Shifting management responsibilities from IPWMAN Inc. to IPWMAN, which is now an intergovernmental agency.
• Amendment Process: A revised process for future changes to the agreement.

Village documents emphasize that operational procedures within IPWMAN will remain consistent. Maintaining an updated agreement is necessary for the Village of Mahomet to retain its membership in the network.

Benefits of IPWMAN Membership

The agreement highlights several benefits of IPWMAN, emphasizing the concept of “community helping community.” These include:

• Resource Sharing: Access to equipment, materials, and personnel from other member agencies during emergencies.
• FEMA Eligibility: Compliance with FEMA criteria, potentially making costs incurred through mutual aid agreements eligible for federal assistance.
• Cost-Effective Assistance: No cost for the first five days of assistance, with potential for aid from any area within Illinois.
• Training Opportunities: Access to educational workshops and training programs designed to prepare agencies for emergencies and disasters.

Financial Implications

The agreement carries an annual membership fee of $100. Additionally, the Village could incur expenses if it mobilizes its staff or equipment to assist other communities. However, membership also positions the Village to maximize potential financial reimbursements from FEMA or other relief agencies in the event of a local disaster.