Romeoville Participates in Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network

At last night’s Village Board Meeting, the board approved an updated intergovernmental agreement for participation in the Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network (IPWMAN). The updates of the agreement include language that clarifies a common practice, in which IPWMAN members assist each other with provision of equipment and personnel.

IPWMAN is a statewide mutual aid system that is available to all public works agencies allowing for aid and support during natural or man-made disasters. The system operates by coordinating personnel and resources when needed for those who require assistance. IPWMAN is composed of hundreds of member agencies that are committed to working together during times of crisis. It is a reliable way for Illinois public works agencies to collaborate and help each other in times of need.

Romeoville has been a member of IPWMAN since 2017 previously assisting municipalities such as Minooka, Woodridge and Coal City. Coal City’s tornado in 2015 was the largest deployment in IPWMAN history.

“Romeoville is extremely proud to be a member of IPWMAN. Being a member has dual benefits – being able to assist communities who need our help but also providing us with added peace of mind knowing that our community will have access to aid if we ever need it,” said Mayor Noak.

Romeoville’s participation in IPWMAN is similar to the agreement that Romeoville Emergency Management Agency (REMA) has with Will County’s Emergency Management Agency (EMA); Romeoville Police Department has with Illinois Law Enforcement Alarm System (ILEAS); and the Romeoville Fire Department has with Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS).

Since 2009, IPWMAN’s membership has grown to hundreds of member agencies. IPWMAN represents public works as a member of the Illinois Terrorism Task Force, has a seat at the State Emergency Operations Center, and works with other mutual aid organizations in response to disaster mitigation. IPWMAN has responded to requests for assistance resulting from flooding, tornadoes, high winds, and other events.