Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-1 June 2020
9.3 CITY OF CLIFTON
This section presents the jurisdictional annex for the City of Clifton. The annex includes a general overview
of the City of Clifton; an assessment of the City of Clifton’s risk, vulnerability, and mitigation capabilities;
and a prioritized action plan to implement prior to a disaster to reduce future losses and achieve greater
resilience to natural hazards.
9.3.1 Hazard Mitigation Planning Team
The following individuals are the City of Clifton’s identified HMP update primary and alternate points of
contact and NFIP Floodplain Administrator.
Table 9.3-1. Hazard Mitigation Planning Team
Primary Point of Contact Alternate Point of Contact Angelina Tirado, OEM Coordinator 900 Clifton Ave., Clifton, NJ 07013 201-249-3269 [email protected]
Michael Onder, Deputy OEM Coordinator 900 Clifton Ave., Clifton, NJ 07013 973-216-5711 [email protected]
NFIP Floodplain Administrator Ernie Tedesco, Construction Official 900 Clifton Ave., Clifton, NJ 07013 973-470-5815 [email protected]
9.3.2 Jurisdiction Profile
The City of Clifton was incorporated as a city by an act of the New Jersey State Legislature on April 26,
1917. Previously the city had been known as Acquackanonk Township, but two days before the act was
passed, a referendum was held and the residents voted to give the city the name as it is known today. The
City of Clifton is governed by the 1923 Municipal Manager Law form of government. The City has a
mayor and six councilpersons.
The City is located in the southeast portion of Passaic County. It is bordered to the north by the City of
Paterson and Borough of Woodland Park, to the east by the City of Passaic, to the west by the Township of
Little Falls, and to the south by Essex County.
According to the U.S. Census, the 2010 population for the City of Clifton was 84,136. The estimated 2017
population was 86,207, a 2.5 percent increase from the 2010 Census. Data from the 2017 U.S. Census
American Community Survey indicate that 3.7 percent of the population is 5 years of age or younger and
8.6 percent is 65 years of age or older. Communities must deploy a support system that enables all
populations to safely reach shelters or to quickly evacuate a hazard area.
9.3.3 Growth/Development Trends
Understanding how past, current, and projected development patterns have or are likely to increase or
decrease risk in hazard areas is a key component to understanding a jurisdiction’s overall risk to its hazards
of concern. Table 9.3-2 summarizes recent and expected future development trends, including major
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-2 June 2020
residential/commercial development and major infrastructure development. Figure 9.3-1 and 9.3-2 at the
end of this annex illustrate the geographically-delineated hazard areas and the location of potential new
development.
Table 9.3-2. Recent and Expected Future Development
Type of Development 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018
Number of Building Permits for New Construction Issued Since the Previous HMP
Single Family 1 8 12 7 4
Multi-Family 66 9 57 7 0
Other (commercial, mixed-
use, etc.)0 0 0 0 0
Property or Development Name
Type of
Development # of Units / Structures
Location (address
and/or block and lot)
Known Hazard Zone(s)*
Description / Status of
Development Recent Major Development and Infrastructure from 2015 to Present
Athenia Park Rec. Facility Green Acres 1 fieldhouse 716 Clifton Ave Ph 2 of 3 completed
Clifton Self Storage Commercial 1 structure 1204 Broad St Under construction
Known or Anticipated Major Development and Infrastructure in the Next Five (5) Years
Quest Diagnostics
Headquarters Commercial 1 structure
1153
Bloomfield
Avenue
Under construction
Seton Hall University -
Interprofessional Health
Science (IHS) Campus
Educational 1 building 100/200 Metro
Boulevard Under Construction
The Chelsea at Clifton Residential 1 building 782 Valley Road none Under Construction
* Only location-specific hazard zones or vulnerabilities identified.
9.3.4 Capability Assessment
The City of Clifton performed an inventory and analysis of existing capabilities, plans, programs, and
policies that enhance its ability to implement mitigation strategies. Section 5 (Capability Assessment)
describes the components included in the capability assessment and their significance for hazard mitigation
planning. This section summarizes the following findings of the assessment:
An assessment of legal and regulatory capabilities.
Development and permitting capabilities.
An assessment of fiscal capabilities.
An assessment of education and outreach capabilities.
Information on National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) compliance.
Classification under various community mitigation programs.
The community’s adaptive capacity for the impacts of climate change.
For a community to succeed in reducing long-term risk, hazard mitigation must be integrated into the day-
to-day local government operations. As part of this planning effort, planning/policy documents were
reviewed, and each jurisdiction was surveyed to obtain a better understanding of their progress in plan
integration. Areas that mitigation is currently integrated are summarized in Capability Assessment
(subsection 9.X.4). The City of Clifton identified specific integration activities that will be incorporated
into municipal procedures are included in the updated mitigation strategy.
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-3 June 2020
PLANN ING , L EG AL A ND REG U LA TOR Y CAPA BI LI TY
The table below summarizes the legal and regulatory tools that are available to the City of Clifton.
Table 9.3-3. Planning, Legal and Regulatory Capability
Do you have this?
(Yes/No)
Authority that
enforces (Federal,
State, Regional, County, Local)
Is this State
Mandated?
Has the HMP been integrated in the last 5
years ? If yes- how?
If yes- how?
Describe in
comments
If no - can it be a
mitigation action? If yes, add
Mitigation Action #.
Codes, Ordinances, & Requirements
Building Code Yes Local Yes No No
Comment: Chapter 197 (Uniform Construction Codes); adopted by the City on 1/4/1977 by ordinance number 4376-77 and amended where applicable.
Zoning Code Yes Local Yes Yes -
Comment: Chapter 461 (Zoning); adopted by municipal council on 5/1/1979 by Ordinance Number 4502-79 and amended where applicable. The code guides the future growth and development of the City in accordance with a comprehensive plan of land use and population density, as set forth in the Master Plan of the City of Clifton that represents the most beneficial, economically productive and socially satisfactory relationships among the residential, commercial and industrial areas within the City of Clifton. The code has a steep slope overlay zone and establishes special land use development controls in the area along the west side of Valley Road to the western boundary of the City with Montclair, Little Falls, West Paterson, and Paterson. The vacant parcels of land in this area are considered environmentally sensitive due to the steep slope topography and susceptible to flooding, soil erosion, or damage/destroy public resources. The goal of this overlay zone is to mitigate potential hazards which exist in steep-sloped areas by reason of soil erosion, sedimentation, soil slippage, flooding, surface water runoff, rockfall, destruction of unique views, loss of vegetation and damage to downhill areas. Furthermore, it is appropriate that special design and construction practices be conducted within steep-sloped areas to preserve and maximize the best use of the natural terrain and to maintain the critical land forms intact to the extent reasonably possible and desirable.
Subdivisions Yes Local Yes - -
Comment: Chapter 399 (Subdivision of Land); adopted 6/22/1954)
Stormwater Management Yes Local Yes Yes -
Comment:
Chapter 394 (Stormwater Control); adopted by the municipal council on 3/21/2006 by ordinance number 6567-06. This code establishes minimum stormwater management requirements and controls for major developments. Any development needs to incorporate a maintenance plan for the stormwater management measures incorporated into the design of a major development. The actions in the ordinance limit soil erosion, encourages non-structural controls, encourages recharge, and improves stormwater quality and reduce quantity.
Chapter 375 (Sewers) – this code was last amended on April 5, 2016. Through rules, regulations, and inspections illicit use of the sanitary and stormwater system is controlled. This code makes it unlawful to discharge restricted waste into any natural outlet within the City.
Chapter 374 (Sewer Utility) – this code enforces the operation, management, control, and maintenance of the sewer system and all extensions and improvements throughout the City. The overall goal is to safeguard and maintain the City’s sanitary sewer system.
Post-Disaster Recovery No - - - -
Comment:
Real Estate Disclosure Yes State Yes Yes -
Comment: Before signing a contract of sale, all purchasers must receive a New Jersey Public Offering Statement (POS) approved by the New Jersey Real Estate Commission. The POS provides information such as proximity to hospitals, schools, fire and police, as well as any hazards, risks or nuisances in or around the subdivision.
Growth Management No - - - -
Comment:
Site Plan Review Yes Local Yes Yes -
Comment: City of Clifton Code, Chapter 461 – Planning Board responsible
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-4 June 2020
Do you have this?
(Yes/No)
Authority that
enforces (Federal,
State, Regional, County, Local)
Is this State
Mandated?
Has the HMP been integrated in the last 5
years ? If yes- how?
If yes- how?
Describe in
comments
If no - can it be a
mitigation action? If yes, add
Mitigation Action #.
Environmental Protection No - - - -
Comment:
Flood Damage Prevention Yes Local Yes Yes Yes – 2020-CLIFTON-
004
Comment: Chapter 239 (Flood Damage Prevention); adopted by the municipal council on 8/8/2007. The code requires new development and substantial improvements to be elevated at or above the base flood elevation; however, this does not meet the minimum one foot above the base flood elevation requirement in New Jersey.
Wellhead Protection No - - - -
Comment:
Emergency Management No - - - -
Comment:
Climate Change No - - - -
Comment:
Disaster Recovery Ordinance No - - - -
Comment:
Disaster Reconstruction Ordinance No - - - -
Comment:
Other Yes Local No Yes -
Comment:
Chapter 433 (Trees and Shrubbery) - The City of Clifton adopted the Tree Removal and Protection Ordinance in 2002. The ordinance mandates that permits are required to cut down or remove any tree 4 inches or greater measured at the height of 4.5 feet above the ground. The application shall be submitted for all commercial, multifamily and one and two family properties. All applications are filed with our Department of Public Works (DPW). Warnings are issued as a first step of enforcement but then fines would be issued for non-compliance through the DPW.
Chapter 57 (Land Use Procedures) - The Planning Board and Zoning Board both have the authority in certain instances to review and approve Subdivisions and Site Plans in accordance with the development regulations that control improvements and buildings in flood hazard areas. This code refers to the flood damage prevention ordinance, subdivision of land, and zoning.
Chapter 393 (Special Improvement District) – adopted September 15, 1998
Planning Documents
Comprehensive / Master Plan Yes Local Yes Yes -
Comment: Updated in 2014 – Zoning Department
Capital Improvement Plan Yes Local No - -
Comment: Finance Department - Included in the annual budget and contains line items for capital improvement projects
Disaster Debris Management Plan Yes Local No - -
Comment: TDMA (Temporary Debris Management Area) through the NJDEP at the DPW garage – February 2020 – it will be incorporated into the City’s EOP
Floodplain or Watershed Plan No - - - -
Comment:
Stormwater Management Plan Yes Local Yes - -
Comment: Updated in 2008; DPW responsible. The City’s Stormwater Management Plan addresses the potential risks due to increased stormwater runoff from major new developments and outlines design and performance standards for stormwater management. The goals
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-5 June 2020
Do you have this?
(Yes/No)
Authority that
enforces (Federal,
State, Regional, County, Local)
Is this State
Mandated?
Has the HMP been integrated in the last 5
years ? If yes- how?
If yes- how?
Describe in
comments
If no - can it be a
mitigation action? If yes, add
Mitigation Action #.
of this Plan include, reducing flood damage, soil erosion and nonpoint source pollution, maintain groundwater recharge and maintain the integrity of stream channels. The Plan details specific changes to the City’s Code, which will incorporate nonstructural stormwater management strategies into the ordinances. Additionally, the plan provides specific mitigation projects that could be implemented, if on-site stormwater management criteria cannot be met.
Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan Yes Local Yes - -
Comment:
Urban Water Management Plan No - No - -
Comment:
Habitat Conservation Plan No - No - -
Comment:
Economic Development Plan Yes Local No - -
Comment: Downtown Clifton
Shoreline Management Plan No - No - -
Comment:
Community Wildfire Protection Plan No - No - -
Comment:
Community Forest Management Plan Yes Local No Yes -
Comment: 2016-2020 Community Forestry Management Plan. The purpose of the plan is to improve the quality of life in the City by maximizing the environmental, social, and economic benefits of trees to the community while minimizing the associated costs and liabilities. Several of the goals align with hazard mitigation and are to secure safety from fire, flood, panic and other natural and man-made disasters consistent with the Master Plan, and the preservation, planting and/or maintenance of buffers and filter strips along waterways and drainage courses, minimization of impervious groundcover, and the design and construction of stormwater collection systems in conjunction with new development to ensure efficient, natural drainage, minimize the risk of serious flooding, and minimize the runoff of silt, nutrients, and pollutant laden stormwater into local water networks as related to the Stormwater Management Plan. Additionally, the City’s master plan is used to guide future growth and development in the City and this plan refers to the master plans’ goals, along with the stormwater management plan and the tree removal protection ordinance.
Transportation Plan No - No - -
Comment:
Agriculture Plan No - No - -
Comment:
Climate Action Plan No - No - -
Comment:
Tourism Plan No - No - -
Comment:
Business Development Plan Yes Local No - -
Comment: Through the Economic Development official
Other Yes Local No - -
Comment:
Risk Communications Plan for Clifton Health Department (May 3, 2017) – This plan discusses the responsibilities of the health department during a disaster or public health emergency. They are responsible for providing public information and educational programs to: Provide support during the four phases of the emergency: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-6 June 2020
Do you have this?
(Yes/No)
Authority that
enforces (Federal,
State, Regional, County, Local)
Is this State
Mandated?
Has the HMP been integrated in the last 5
years ? If yes- how?
If yes- how?
Describe in
comments
If no - can it be a
mitigation action? If yes, add
Mitigation Action #.
operations; Provide the public with accurate, timely and easily understood event- related information concerning protective actions, health notices and assistance information; control rumors; coordinate information releases with all participating public and private agencies, emergency responders, and all levels of government to support public officials and media representatives in satisfying the public’s demand for accurate and consistent information; limit public information activities to the Clifton-specific events and actions; the Local Health Officer of the City of Clifton may serve as spokesperson for the EOC or be a subject matter expert and support the Municipal PIO. This determination is made in cooperation with the Municipal Government and/or OEM Coordinator; provide information using health literacy principles for limited language proficient populations; and coordinate with NJDOH, Northwest Region, Passaic County Health Department, St. Mary’s General Hospital, and St. Joseph's Regional Medical Center for Subject Matter Experts as needed.
Response/Recovery Planning
Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (CEMP) / Emergency Operations Plan (EOP)
Yes Local Yes - -
Comment: The City of Clifton's EOP has been updated in 2018 and was approved by the New Jersey State Police (NJSP). The plan has annexes which are updated every year if needed. The plan is approved by NJSP every four years. There are appendixes that go along with the plan and staff changes are updated if there is a new hire, promotion or retirement.
Threat & Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment (THIRA) No - No - -
Comment:
Post-Disaster Recovery Plan Yes Local No - -
Comment: part of the EOP
Continuity of Operations Plan No - No - -
Comment:
Public Health Plan Yes Local No - -
Comment: Health Department responsible for maintaining and updating
Other No - No - -
Comment:
Table 9.3-4. Development and Permitting Capability
Criterion Response Does your jurisdiction issue development permits? - If no, who does? If yes, which department?
Yes – through the zoning and planning departments/board
Does your jurisdiction have the ability to track permits by hazard area? No
Does your jurisdiction have a buildable lands inventory? -If yes, please describe briefly. -If no, please quantitatively describe the level of buildout in the jurisdiction.
No – the City is nearly built out
ADM INIS TR AT IV E A ND TECH NI CAL CA PAB IL IT Y
The table below summarizes potential staff and personnel resources available to the City of Clifton.
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-7 June 2020
Table 9.3-5. Administrative and Technical Capabilities
Staff/Personnel Resource Available? Department/Agency/Position
Administrative Capability
Planning Board Yes City of Clifton Planning Board
Mitigation Planning Committee No -
Environmental Board / Commission Yes City of Clifton Environmental Commission
Open Space Board / Committee No -
Economic Development Commission / Committee No -
Warning Systems / Services (reverse 911, outdoor warning signals)
Yes Rave (reverse 911); public access TV channel;
municipal website; CERT and LEPC
Maintenance program to reduce risk Yes Tree trimming, storm drain clearing, and sewer
maintenance
Mutual aid agreements Yes Surrounding municipalities, American Red Cross
and Passaic County; UASI
Technical/Staffing Capability
Planners or engineers with knowledge of land development and land management practices
Yes Engineering and Zoning
Engineers or professionals trained in building or infrastructure construction practices
Yes Engineering and Construction Code
Planners or engineers with an understanding of natural hazards
Yes Engineering and Construction Code
Staff with training in benefit/cost analysis No -
Staff with training in green infrastructure Yes Engineer
Staff with education/knowledge/training in low impact development
Yes City Council
Surveyor Yes Engineering
Stormwater engineer Yes Engineer
Personnel skilled or trained in GIS applications Yes Engineering and OEM
Local or state water quality professional Yes Passaic Valley Water Commission
Scientist familiar with natural hazards in local area No -
Emergency manager Yes OEM
Watershed planner Yes Engineer and County Planning
Environmental specialist No -
Grant writers Yes Consultant
Resilience Officer No -
Other Yes CERT Program Manager
F IS CAL CA PAB IL IT Y
The table below summarizes financial resources available to the City of Clifton.
Table 9.3-6. Fiscal Capabilities
Financial Resource Accessible or Eligible to Use?
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG, CDBG-DR) Yes
Capital Improvements Project Funding Yes
Authority to Levy Taxes for Specific Purposes Yes
User Fees for Water, Sewer, Gas or Electric Service Yes
Incur Debt through General Obligation Bonds Yes
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-8 June 2020
Financial Resource Accessible or Eligible to Use?
Incur Debt through Special Tax Bonds No
Incur Debt through Private Activity Bonds No
Withhold Public Expenditures in Hazard-Prone Areas Yes
State-Sponsored Grant Programs Yes
Development Impact Fees for Homebuyers or Developers No
Clean Water Act 319 Grants (Nonpoint Source Pollution) No
Other No
EDUCAT IO N AND OU TR EAC H CAPAB I LIT Y
The table below summarizes the education and outreach resources available to the City of Clifton.
Table 9.3-7. Education and Outreach Capabilities
Criterion Response Do you have a public information officer or communications office?
Yes - City Manager is the PIO
Do you have personnel skilled or trained in website development?
Yes - website was built by consultant; city maintains the website
Do you have hazard mitigation information available on your website?
If yes, briefly describe.
Yes - Rave (reverse 911); public access TV channel; municipal website; CERT and LEPC; social media (Facebook and Twitter). The City posts important information and alerts before, during, and after
storm events to inform residents and keep them up-to-date.Do you use social media for hazard mitigation education and outreach?
If yes, briefly describe.Yes – Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
Do you have any citizen boards or commissions that address issues related to hazard mitigation?
If yes, briefly describe.
Yes – Hazardous Material Control Board - makes recommendations to ensure that storage and use of hazardous chemicals in Clifton are done in accordance to federal, state, and local laws to ensure the safety of
the residents and businesses in Clifton. All new businesses within the City of Clifton are required to complete a Building Department CBC application and must report any hazardous materials that will be used
or stored on-site via HMCB application and Fire Department Inventory Sheet.
Do you have any other programs already in place that could be used to communicate hazard-related information? If yes, briefly describe.
Yes – social media, Clifton magazine, Channel 40 public access
Do you have any established warning systems for hazard events?
If yes, briefly describe.
Yes - Rave (reverse 911); public access TV channel; municipal website; CERT and LEPC; social media (Facebook and Twitter)
COM M UNIT Y CLAS S IF IC ATI ONS
The table below summarizes the classifications for community programs available to the City of Clifton.
Table 9.3-8. Community Classifications
Program Participating? Classification Date Classified
Community Rating System No - -
Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule (BCEGS) No - -
Public Protection (Fire ISO Protection Class) Yes 4 - 1 &2 family3 - commercial and industrial
10/24/2013
Storm Ready Certification No - -
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-9 June 2020
Program Participating? Classification Date Classified
Firewise Community Classification No - -
Sustainable Jersey Yes Bronze 12/11/2019
ADAPT IV E CA PAC IT Y
Adaptive capacity is defined as “the ability of systems, institutions, humans and other organisms to adjust
to potential damage, to take advantage of opportunities, or respond to consequences” (IPCC 2014). In other
words, it describes a jurisdiction’s current ability to adjust to, protect from, or withstand a hazard event.
This term is often discussed in reference to climate change; however, adaptive capacity also includes an
understanding of local capacity for adapting to current and future risks and changing conditions. The table
below summarizes the adaptive capacity for each hazard and the jurisdiction’s rating.
Does the municipality have access to resources to determine the possible impacts of climate change
upon the municipality? Yes - NJDEP, State Climatologist
Is the administrative supportive of integrating climate change in policies or actions? Yes –
currently part of Sustainable Jersey and a Tree City USA community
Is climate change already being integrated into current policies/plans or actions
(projects/monitoring) within the municipality? Yes - varies throughout municipal departments
Table 9.3-9. Adaptive Capacity
Hazard Adaptive Capacity (Capabilities) -
High/Medium/Low
Coastal Storm Medium
Dam Failure Medium
Disease Outbreak Medium
Drought Medium
Earthquake Medium
Extreme Temperature Medium
Flood Medium
Geological Hazards Medium
Hazardous Substances Medium
Severe Weather Medium
Severe Winter Weather Medium
Wildfire Medium
NATION AL F LO OD INS U R ANCE PR OG R AM
This section provides specific information on the management and regulation of the regulatory floodplain.
Table 9.3-10. National Flood Insurance Program Compliance
Criterion Response What local department is responsible for floodplain management? Building Department
Who is your floodplain administrator? (name, department/position) Construction Official
Are any certified floodplain managers on staff in your jurisdiction? No
What is the date that your flood damage prevention ordinance was last amended? August 8, 2007
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-10 June 2020
Criterion Response Does your floodplain management program meet or exceed minimum requirements?
If exceeds, in what ways?
Overall, meets the minimum; however, it does not meet the minimum state
requirement for new development and substantial improvements in the
floodplain which requires a minimum of one foot above the base flood elevation.
Refer to 2020-CLIFTON-004When was the most recent Community Assistance Visit or Community Assistance Contact? Not identified
Does your jurisdiction have any outstanding NFIP compliance violations that need to be addressed?
If so, state what they are.No
Are any RiskMAP projects currently underway in your jurisdiction? If so, state what they are.
No
Do your flood hazard maps adequately address the flood risk within your jurisdiction?
If no, state why.Yes
Does your floodplain management staff need any assistance or training to support its floodplain management program?
If so, what type of assistance/training is needed?No
Does your jurisdiction participate in the Community Rating System (CRS)? If yes, is your jurisdiction interested in improving its CRS
Classification? If no, is your jurisdiction interested in joining the CRS program?
No, the City is currently not in the CRS program
How many flood insurance policies are in force in your jurisdiction?* What is the insurance in force? What is the premium in force?
141 policies in force $46,026,700 insurance in force
$289,934 premium in force
How many total loss claims have been filed in your jurisdiction?* How many claims are still open or were closed without payment? What were the total payments for losses?
128 claims 4 open / 32 closed without payment
$3,417,513 total payments
Do you maintain a list of properties that have been damaged by flooding? No
Do you maintain a list of property owners interested in flood mitigation? No
*According to FEMA statistics as of 2018
ADDIT IO NAL AR EAS O F EX IS TI NG INT EG R AT ION
Clifton Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) promotes signing up residents and
businesses at City events by providing community public outreach at National Night Out, City
Picnic and other street fairs and events.
The Clifton Green Team in collaboration with Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission and the NJ
Watershed Ambassador hosted a Build Your Own Rain Barrel Workshop on May 4, 2019, at
Clifton City Hall and was open to all City residents. This is a yearly event that started in 2016. Rain
Barrel workshops promote the bigger picture of Sustainable Living providing water conservation,
reducing stormwater runoff and mitigate water pollution.
City of Clifton Health Department use various methods to distribute public health alerts and
information to the public. This includes radio, LINCS health alert network, telephone, face-to-fact
media briefings, Citizen Alert, Communication NXT, television, newspapers, distribution of
printed material, emergency hotline activation, NJ 2-1-1, municipal website, and social media.
Master Plan Reexamination Report (2008): The Plan addresses issues regarding hazard mitigation
with the incorporation of goals that include securing safety from fire, flood, panic and other natural
and man-made disasters, to provide adequate light, air and open space, to protect environmentally
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-11 June 2020
sensitive areas from development, provide adequate community facilities and encourage active
citizen participation in the planning process.
o The City plans to achieve these goals through various actions including:
Use of ordinances to restrict development of environmentally sensitive areas
The City’s land use policy discourages infrastructure improvements that would
impact environmental features
Addition of new requirements to zoning ordinances, including environmental
impact statement requirements and shade tree requirements
Implement an open space tax of $0.75 per $1000 of assessed value
Operations and Administration: The DPW conducts stormwater maintenance clearing catch basins
and rebuilding/reconstructing basins. The City also conducts tree maintenance around power lines.
Outreach: The City’s website has a link to sign-up for their Emergency Notification system.
Additionally, the site hosts information on construction updates and traffic advisories, as well as
special community events, which include the location of flu clinics. A map of the Clifton
Emergency Snow Route is also available on the website. The City also maintains a Reverse 911
system. Disaster Preparedness Day was held at the Clifton. The City is partnering with the County
to conduct the hazardous material waste collection day.
A Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) was started in 2014.
Funding: The Capital Improvement Budget funds the match for mitigation projects. The generator
at City Hall was funded through the Capital Improvement Budget.
The City’s Environmental Commission/Green Team is made up of 12 members. Their mission is
to:
o Play a coordinating role among the diverse actors in environmental protection:
Boards of health and utilities authorities
Local planning boards
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP)
Soil Conservation Districts
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA)
o Promote regional and long-range environmental planning
o Reach local citizens through educational programs, publications and meetings
o Work with neighboring commissions and other organizations to address regional and state-
wide environmental problems
9.3.5 Hazard Event History Specific to the Jurisdiction
Passaic County has a history of hazard events, as detailed in Section 4 (Risk Assessment) of this plan. A
summary of historical events is provided in each of the hazard profiles in Section 4.4 (Hazard Profiles) and
includes a chronology of events that affected Passaic County and its jurisdictions. The City of Clifton’s
history of federally-declared (as presented by FEMA) and significant hazard events (as presented in NOAA-
NCEI) is consistent with that of Passaic County. Table 9.3-11 provides details regarding municipal-specific
loss and damages the City experienced during hazard events. Information provided in the table below is
based on reference material or local sources.
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-12 June 2020
Table 9.3-11. Hazard Event History
Date(s) of Event
Event Type (disaster
declaration if applicable)
Passaic County
Designated? Summary of Event Summary of Local
Damages and Losses May 14, 2017 Thunderstorms
and Strong Wind
N/A Strong thunderstorms struck over northeast New Jersey. Wind speeds between 40 and 50 mph were observed. In the City of Clifton, downed trees were reported, including one into a house on Ivy Drive.
None identified
August 5, 2017 Thunderstorms and Flash Flooding
N/A Showers and thunderstorms in the area led to isolated flash flooding in Passaic County. In the City of Clifton, US 46 was closed in both directions west of CR 625 and Randolph Ave. due to flooding.
None identified
March 6-7, 2018
Severe Winter Storm and Snowstorm DR-4368
Yes The storm brought heavy wet snow, strong gusty winds, and even some thundersnow across northeast New Jersey. Snowfall rates ranged from 1 to 3 inches per hour at times in the heaviest snow bands.
None identified
9.3.6 Jurisdiction-Specific Vulnerabilities and Hazard ranking
The hazard profiles in Section 4 (Risk Assessment) provide detailed information regarding each plan
participant’s vulnerability to the identified hazards. Table 9.3-12 summarizes the City of Clifton risk
assessment results and data used to determine the hazard ranking.
In an attempt to summarize the confidence level regarding the input utilized to populate the hazard ranking,
a gradient of certainty was developed. A certainty factor of high, medium or low was selected and assigned
to each hazard to provide a level of transparency and increased understanding of the data utilized to support
the resulting ranking. The following scale was used to assign a certainty factor to each hazard:
High—Defined scenario/event to evaluate; probability calculated; evidenced-based/quantitative
assessment to estimate potential impacts through hazard modeling.
Moderate—Defined scenario/event or only a hazard area to evaluate; estimated probability;
combination of quantitative (exposure analysis, no hazard modeling) and qualitative data to
estimate potential impacts.
Low—Scenario or hazard area is undefined; there is a degree of uncertainty regarding event
probability; majority of potential impacts are qualitative.
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-13 June 2020
Table 9.3-12. Summary of Risk Assessment Results
Hazard of Concern
Hazard/ Scenario Area Evaluated Population Buildings Economya
Certainty Factor
Coastal Storm* 100-Year Mean Return Period
Hurricane 100-year MRP
Hurricane: 86,207
100-year MRP
Hurricane: 21,859
100-year MRP
Hurricane: $6,271,624 High
Dam Failure
Partial or complete failure of a dam
Population impacted is dependent on the location and capacity of the dam, the extent of the dam failure inundation area and the severity of
the failure.
The number of buildings impacted is dependent on the
capacity of the dam, the extent of the dam failure inundation area and the severity of the failure.
Economic impacts include dam/building/infrastructure repairs;
debris removal/disposal; utility impacts. Low There are 155 dams in the
County; 49 are high hazard according to NJDEP.
Disease Outbreak
Disease Outbreaks which include: Mosquito-Borne
Diseases, Tick-Borne Diseases, Foodborne Illnesses, Infectious Disease (Influenza, Enterovirus
D68, Hepatitis C, Measles, Ebola) MRSA
Population impacted is dependent on the disease and severity of the outbreak; in some cases, immuno-
compromised persons are more vulnerable.
Structural impacts due to disease outbreak would be
limited.
Economic losses can include County financial impacts to monitor/address outbreaks; lost wages or commercial interruptions; depends on the severity
and type of disease outbreak.
Low
Drought
Prolonged drought event - The County is serviced by water supplies who primarily get water from surface water, reservoirs and unconfined
groundwater sources.
Entire population exposed. Population on surface water
supplies may be impacted first; water restrictions/contamination;
increased wildfire risk.
Droughts are not expected to cause direct damage to
buildings.
Losses include aesthetic, landscape/nursery/agricultural industry
impacts Low
Earthquake*
100, 500-, 2,500-Year Mean Return Period (MRP) Events
evaluated NEHRP D&E: 14,874 NEHRP D&E: 2,812
100-year MRP building damages/loss:
$0
High
NEHRP Soils D&E (soft soils that amplify ground shaking are
present in the County)
Liquefaction Class 4:
3 Liquefaction
Class 4: 9
500-year MRP building damages/loss:
$764,094
2,500-year MRP building damages/loss:
$13,364,243
Extreme Temperature
Extreme temperature event (heat or cold)
Over 65 Population: 12,718 Structural impacts due to
extreme temperatures would be limited.
Loss of business function is possible due to unexpected repairs (i.e. pipes bursting) or power failures; increased operational costs due to increased use of generators
Low
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-14 June 2020
Hazard of Concern
Hazard/ Scenario Area Evaluated Population Buildings Economya
Certainty Factor
Population Below Poverty Level:
8,190 and HVAC; thermal expansion and other
impacts to infrastructure.
Flood* 100- and 500-Year Mean Return
Period Event
1% annual chance 109 1% annual
chance 61 1% annual chance
$4,717,444 High 0.2% annual chance 946
0.2% annual chance
278
Geological High Landslide Susceptibility
Areas and Areas developed over carbonate rock
Class A: 16 Class A: 6 Class A: $33,675,323
Moderate Class B: 0 Class B: 0 Class B: $o
Carbonate Bedrock: 0 Carbonate Bedrock:
0 Carbonate Bedrock: $0
Hazardous Substanceb
Release of a hazardous substance from a fixed site.
Population impacted will depend on the type of material and scale of
the incident. May include population within small radii of
site.
The degree of damages to a building depends on the scale
of the incident.
The degree of damages depends on the scale of the incident.
Low
Severe Weather*
Severe Weather Event
Entire population exposed; the degree of impact to the population
depends on the scale of the incident.
Entire building stock is exposed; The degree of
impact depends on the scale of the incident.
Economic impacts depend upon the degree of impact.
Low
Severe Winter Weather
Severe Winter Weather Event
All residents/commuters/visitors are exposed; socially-vulnerable populations may be at increased
risk
All buildings are exposed; the degree of impact depends on
the scale of the incident.
The cost of snow and ice removal and repair of roads/infrastructure can impact
operating budgets. Low
Wildfire Wildfire Fuel Hazard areas (High, Very High, Extreme)
Population residing in the hazard area:
0 Number of
buildings the hazard area:
4
Replacement cost value of buildings
located in the hazard area:
$30,902,070 Moderate
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-15 June 2020
REP ET ITIV E FL OOD L OS S ES
The following summarizes the repetitive and severe repetitive flood losses in the City of Clifton.
Number of repetitive loss (RL) properties: 5 (see 2020-CLIFTON-003 in Table 9.3-15)
Number of severe repetitive loss (SRL) properties: 0
Number of RL/SRL properties that have been mitigated: 0
Source: FEMA March 2019
Note: The number of SRL properties excludes RL properties.
CR ITI CAL FA CI LI TI ES
The table below identifies critical facilities in the community located in the 1-percent and 0.2-percent
floodplain.
Table 9.3-12. Potential Flood Losses to Critical Facilities and Lifelines
Name Type
Exposure
Status of Mitigation 1% Event 0.2% Event
Passaic Valley Sewage Pump Station
Wastewater Pump X X 2020-CLIFTON-001
*Identified lifeline
ADDI TIO N AL ID EN TI FI ED VULN ER AB I LIT I ES
The jurisdiction has identified the following vulnerabilities within their community:
The City of Clifton has exhibited water quantity problems including flooding, stream bank erosion,
and diminished base flow in its streams. Many of the culverts associated with road crossings in the
City are undersized and during severe weather events, they cause a backwater effect and flood
upstream. Specific areas that are affected including:
Third River culvert at Woodlawn Avenue
Third River culvert at Edwards Road
Third River culvert at Charles Street
Third River culvert at Grove Street
Weasel Brook culvert at the Erie Railroad
Weasel Brook culvert at Main Avenue
HAZ AR D AR E A EXT ENT AND LOCA TI ON
Hazard area extent and location maps were generated for the City of Clifton that illustrate the probable
areas impacted within the municipality. These maps are based on the best available data at the time of the
preparation of this plan and are adequate for planning purposes. Maps have been generated only for those
hazards that can be clearly identified using mapping techniques and technologies and for which the City of
Clifton has significant exposure. A map of the City of Clifton hazard area extent and location is provided
on the following page. This map indicates the location of the regulatory floodplain, as well as identified
critical facilities within the municipality.
HAZ AR D RAN KI NG
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-16 June 2020
This section includes the community specific identification of the primary hazard concerns based on
identified problems, impacts and the results of the risk assessment as presented in Section 5 (Risk
Assessment). The ranking process involves an assessment of the likelihood of occurrence for each hazard;
its potential impacts on people, property, and the economy; community capability and changing future
climate conditions. This input supports the mitigation action development to target those hazards with
highest level of concern.
As discussed in Section 4.3 (Hazard Ranking), each plan participant may have differing degrees of risk
exposure and vulnerability compared to Passaic County as a whole. Therefore, each jurisdiction ranked the
degree of risk to each hazard as it pertains to their community factoring in their capabilities to withstand
impacts and bounce back after the event. The table below summarizes the hazard rankings of potential
natural hazards for the City of Clifton. The City of Clifton has reviewed the Passaic County hazard ranking
table, as well as its individual results, to reflect the relative risk of the hazards of concern to the community.
During the review of the hazard ranking, the City indicated the following:
The City adjusted the ranking of drought from medium to low based on event history.
The City adjusted the ranking of earthquake from medium to low based on event history and
experience.
The City adjusted hazardous substances from medium to low because many of the facilities that
dealt with hazardous substances are no longer located in the City.
Table 9.3-13. City of Clifton Hazard Ranking Input
Coastal Storm Dam Failure Disease
Outbreak Drought Earthquake Extreme
Temperature
High Low Medium Low Low Medium
Flood Geological
Hazard Hazardous Substances
Severe Weather
Severe Winter Weather Wildfire
Medium Low Low Medium Medium Low
9.3.7 Mitigation Strategy and Prioritization
This section discusses past mitigations actions and status, describes proposed hazard mitigation initiatives,
and provides action prioritization.
PAS T M ITIG AT IO N IN IT IAT IV E STATUS
The following table summarizes the jurisdiction’s progress on their mitigation strategy identified in the
2015 HMP. Actions that are carried forward as part of this plan update are included in the following
subsection in its own table with prioritization. Previous actions that are now on-going programs and
capabilities are indicated as such in the following table and can also be found under ‘Capability Assessment’
presented previously in this annex.
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-17 June 2020
Table 9.3-14. Status of Previous HMP Mitigation Actions
2015 Action Number Action Description Responsible
Party
Status (In Progress, No
Progress, Ongoing Capability, or Completed)
Include in the 2020 HMP
Update?
Check if Yes
Enter 2020 HMP
Action #
Clifton-1
Obtain backup power to support continuity of operations during hazard events. Critical facilities identified at this time: - DPW - City fire departments - City Hall complete - Clifton Senior Center (shelter) - Clifton High School
City of Clifton
In Progress – generators have been installed at the DPW, majority of the fire
stations (all but Station 4), City Hall
and the Clifton Senior Center
Yes – this will
include Station 4 and
Clifton High
School
2020-CLIFTON-
002
Clifton-2
Use the Hazard Mitigation Plan as a guide when updating the Master Plan.
City of Clifton
Ongoing Capability - -
Clifton-3
Develop and implement an enhanced all-hazards, public outreach / education / mitigation information program on natural hazard risks and what they can do in the way of mitigation and preparedness, including flood insurance. This program will include the continued purchase of preparedness materials for the public.
OEM Ongoing Capability - -
Clifton-4
Support the mitigation of vulnerable structures via retrofit (e.g. elevation, flood-proofing) or acquisition/relocation to protect structures from future damage, with repetitive loss and severe repetitive loss properties as a priority when applicable. Phase 1: Identify appropriate candidates and determine most cost-effective mitigation option (in progress). Phase 2: Work with the property owners to implement selected action based on available funding and local match availability.
Engineering Ongoing Capability - -
Clifton-5
Delawanna Avenue Stormwater Improvements Fire
DepartmentCompleted - -
Clifton-6
East 7th Street 60" Storm sewer Project Fire
DepartmentCompleted - -
PR OPOS E D HAZ AR D M I TIG AT ION IN ITI ATIV ES FOR T HE PL AN UPDAT E
The City of Clifton participated in a risk assessment workshop in February 2020 in which detailed
information was provided about assets exposed and vulnerable to the identified hazards of concern. The
City of Clifton participated in a mitigation action workshop in February 2020 and was provided a Mitigation
Toolbox that included a mitigation catalog developed specifically for Passaic County and its hazards of
concerns; challenges and opportunities identified during the capability and risk assessments; and the
following FEMA publications to use as a resource as part of their comprehensive review of all possible
activities and mitigation measures to address their hazards: FEMA 551 Selecting Appropriate Mitigation
Measures for Floodprone Structures (March 2007) and FEMA Mitigation Ideas – A Resource for Reducing
Risk to Natural Hazards (January 2013). Section 6 (Mitigation Strategy) and Appendix F (Mitigation
Strategy Supplement) provide a more complete description of the Mitigation Toolbox and its resources.
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-18 June 2020
Table 9.3-15 summarizes the comprehensive-range of specific mitigation initiatives the City of Clifton
would like to pursue in the future to reduce the effects of hazards. Some of these initiatives might be
previous actions carried forward for this HMP update. Initiatives are dependent upon available funding
(grants and local match availability) and can be modified or omitted at any time based on the occurrence of
new hazard events and changes in municipal priorities. Both the 4 FEMA mitigation action categories and
the 6 CRS mitigation action categories are listed in the table below to further demonstrate the wide-range
of activities and mitigation measures selected.
As discussed in Section 6 (Mitigation Strategy), 14 criteria are used to evaluate and prioritize each proposed
mitigation action. A numeric factor is assigned (-1, 0, or 1) to each criterion to provide a relative indication
of the opportunities and constraints of each action. A numerical sum of the input provides the basis of the
prioritization of actions wherein each action is assigned a category of Low, Medium, or High to indicate an
implementation hierarchy. A High priority action indicates the jurisdiction will prioritize its implementation
and apply for funding, if needed, as opportunities become available during the plan period of performance.
This does not prevent the jurisdiction from implementing other ranked actions; however, this provides a
snapshot of implementation priority at the time of this plan update.
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-19 June 2020
Table 9.3-15. Proposed Hazard Mitigation Initiatives and Associated Priority
Initiative Number
Mitigation Initiative
Name Description of the Problem
and Solution
New or Existing Assets?
Hazard(s) to be
Mitigated Goals Met
Lead and Support Agencies
Potential Funding Sources E
stim
ate
d
Be
ne
fits
Est
ima
ted
C
ost
Tim
eli
ne
Pri
ori
ty
Mit
iga
tio
n
Ca
teg
ory
CR
S
Ca
teg
ory
2020-CLIFTON-001
Critical Facility - Passaic Valley Sewage Pump Station
Problem: The Passaic Valley Sewage Pump Station is located in the 1% annual chance flood area.
Existing Coastal Storm, Flood, Severe Weather
2, 4, 6 Construction Official, City OEM
City Budget
Increase awareness, provide education to critical facility owner/operator
<$10,000 Within 1 year
High EAP PI, PP
Solution: The City does not own this facility. They will perform outreach to the Passaic Valley Sewage Commission informing them the facility is located in the floodplain and provide mitigation options to protect from flood damage.
2020-CLIFTON-002
Backup Power for Fire Department and High School
Problem: Station 4 (fire department) and Clifton High School are considered critical facilities that provide essential services to the community. In the event of a power outage, the facilities can operate properly.
Existing All 1, 2, 3, 6
City Engineer, Fire Department, Administration
FEMA HMGP, City budget
Continuity of operations
$100,000 Within 2 years
High SIP PP, ES
Solution: Purchase and install backup power at Station 4 and Clifton High School.
2020-CLIFTON-003
Outreach to Floodprone Properties
Problem: There are five repetitive loss properties in the City.
Existing Flood 1, 2, 3 Construction Official, OEM
City budget
Increase awareness, provide education to homeowners on how to protect homes
<$10,000 Within 1 year
Medium EAP PI
Solution: The City will conduct an outreach to the five repetitive loss properties to inform them different mitigation options (e.g. elevate utilities, remove items from basement, etc.).
2020-CLIFTON-004
Update the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance
Problem: The current flood damage prevention ordinance (Chapter 239) states that any new development or substantial improvements must be elevated at or above the base flood elevation. This does not meet the minimum requirement set by the State of New Jersey.
New and Existing
Flood All City Administration
City Budget
Increase protection of development in the floodplain
<$10,000 Within 1 year
High LPR PR, PP
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-20 June 2020
Initiative Number
Mitigation Initiative
Name Description of the Problem
and Solution
New or Existing Assets?
Hazard(s) to be
Mitigated Goals Met
Lead and Support Agencies
Potential Funding Sources E
stim
ate
d
Be
ne
fits
Est
ima
ted
C
ost
Tim
eli
ne
Pri
ori
ty
Mit
iga
tio
n
Ca
teg
ory
CR
S
Ca
teg
ory
Solution: Update the current flood damage prevention ordinance to require new construction and substantial improvements to be elevated at least one foot above the base flood elevation.
Notes:
Acronyms and Abbreviations: Potential FEMA HMA Funding Sources: Timeline:CAV Community Assistance VisitCRS Community Rating System DPW Department of Public Works FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency FPA Floodplain Administrator HMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance N/A Not applicable NFIP National Flood Insurance Program OEM Office of Emergency Management
FMA Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant Program HMGP Hazard Mitigation Grant Program PDM Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant Program
The time required for completion of the project upon implementation
Cost: The estimated cost for implementation.
Benefits: A description of the estimated benefits, either quantitative and/or qualitative.
Mitigation Category:
Local Plans and Regulations (LPR) – These actions include government authorities, policies or codes that influence the way land and buildings are being developed and built.
Structure and Infrastructure Project (SIP) - These actions involve modifying existing structures and infrastructure to protect them from a hazard or remove them from a hazard area. This could apply to public or private structures as well as critical facilities and infrastructure. This type of action also involves projects to construct manmade structures to reduce the impact of hazards.
Natural Systems Protection (NSP) – These are actions that minimize damage and losses and preserve or restore the functions of natural systems.
Education and Awareness Programs (EAP) – These are actions to inform and educate citizens, elected officials, and property owners about hazards and potential ways to mitigate them. These actions may also include participation in national programs, such as StormReady and Firewise Communities.
CRS Category:
Preventative Measures (PR) - Government, administrative or regulatory actions, or processes that influence the way land and buildings are developed and built. Examples include planning and zoning, floodplain local laws, capital improvement programs, open space preservation, and storm water management regulations.
Property Protection (PP) - These actions include public activities to reduce hazard losses or actions that involve (1) modification of existing buildings or structures to protect them from a hazard or (2) removal of the structures from the hazard area. Examples include acquisition, elevation, relocation, structural retrofits, storm shutters, and shatter-resistant glass.
Public Information (PI) - Actions to inform and educate citizens, elected officials, and property owners about hazards and potential ways to mitigate them. Actions include outreach projects, real estate disclosure, hazard information centers, and educational programs for school-age children and adults.
Natural Resource Protection (NR) - Actions that minimize hazard loss and preserve or restore the functions of natural systems. Actions include sediment and erosion control, stream corridor restoration, watershed management, forest and vegetation management, and wetland restoration and preservation.
Structural Flood Control Projects (SP) - Actions that involve the construction of structures to reduce the impact of a hazard. Structures include dams, setback levees, floodwalls, retaining walls, and safe rooms.
Emergency Services (ES) - Actions that protect people and property during and immediately following a disaster or hazard event. Services include warning systems, emergency response services, and the protection of essential facilities.
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-21 June 2020
Table 9.3-16. Summary Evaluation and Action Priority
Initiative Number Mitigation Initiative Name L
ife
Sa
fety
Pro
pe
rty
P
rote
ctio
n
Co
st
Eff
ect
ive
ne
ss
Te
chn
ica
l
Po
liti
cal
Le
ga
l
Fis
cal
En
vir
on
me
nta
l
So
cia
l
Ad
min
istr
ati
ve
Mu
lti-
Ha
zard
Tim
eli
ne
Ag
en
cy
Ch
am
pio
n
Oth
er
Co
mm
un
ity
O
bje
ctiv
es
To
tal High /
Medium / Low
2020-CLIFTON-001
Critical Facility - Passaic Valley Sewage Pump Station 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 9 High
2020-CLIFTON-002
Backup Power for Fire Department and High School 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 10 High
2020-CLIFTON-003
Outreach to Floodprone Properties 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 8 Medium
2020-CLIFTON-004
Update the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 10 High
Notes: Section 6 (Mitigation Strategy) conveys guidance on prioritizing mitigation actions.
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-22 June 2020
Table 9.3-17. Analysis of Mitigation Actions by Hazard and Category
Hazard Prevention Property
Protection
Public Education
and Awareness
Natural Resource
Protection Emergency
Services Structural
Projects Climate
Resilient
Community Capacity Building
Coastal Storm -001, -002 -001 -002 -002
Dam Failure -002 -002 -002
Disease Outbreak
-002 -002 -002
Drought -002 -002 -002
Earthquake -002 -002 -002
Extreme Temperature
-002 -002 -002
Flood -004 -001, -002 -001, -003 -002 -002 -004
Geological Hazard
-002 -002 -002
Hazardous Substances
-002 -002 -002
Severe Weather
-001, -002 -001 -002 -002
Severe Winter Weather
-002 -002 -002
Wildfire -002 -002 -002
Note: Section 6 (Mitigation Strategy) provides for an explanation of the mitigation categories.
RED = high ranked hazard
ORANGE = medium ranked hazard
YELLOW = low ranked hazard
9.3.8 Staff and Local Stakeholder Involvement in Annex Development
The City of Clifton followed the planning process described in Section 2 (Planning Process). This annex was
developed over the course of several months with input from many jurisdiction representatives. All departments
were asked to contribute to the annex development through reviewing and contributing to the capability assessment,
reporting on the status of previously identified actions, and participating in action identification and prioritization.
The following table summarizes who participated and in what capacity. Additional documentation on the
municipality’s planning process through Planning Partnership meetings is included in Section 2 (Planning Process)
and Appendix C (Meeting Documentation).
Table 9.3-18. Contributors to the Annex
Entity Title Method of Participation
Angelina Tirado OEM Coordinator Identified point of contact, attended meetings, provided input on annex development
Michael Onder Deputy OEM Coordinator Identified point of contact, attended meetings, provided input on annex development, provided mitigation actions
Ron Laube Deputy OEM Coordinator Attended meetings
Ernie Tedesco Construction Official/ NFIP
Floodplain AdministratorProvided input on the annex
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-23 June 2020
Figure 9.3-1. City of Clifton Hazard Area Extent and Location Map 1
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-24 June 2020
Figure 9.3-2. City of Clifton Hazard Area Extent and Location Map 2
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-25 June 2020
Action Worksheet
Project Name: Critical Facility - Passaic Valley Sewage Pump Station
Project Number: 2020-CLIFTON-001
Risk / Vulnerability
Hazard(s) of Concern: Coastal Storm, Flood, Severe Weather
Description of the Problem:
Passaic Valley Sewerage Pump Station is a critical facility that provides essential services to the City and surrounding area. The pump station is located in the 1% and 0.2% annual chance flood areas and might be susceptible to flood damages. The City does not own this facility and does not have the jurisdiction to mitigate the facility.
Action or Project Intended for Implementation
Description of the Solution:
The City of Clifton will perform outreach to the Passaic Valley Sewage Commission informing them the facility is located in the floodplain and provide mitigation options to protect from flood damage. Options can include install flood doors, purchasing deployable flood walls, and elevating utilities above the base flood elevation.
Is this project related to a Critical Facility or Lifeline?
Yes No
Level of Protection: N/A Estimated Benefits (losses avoided):
Increase awareness, provide education to critical facility owner/operator
Useful Life: N/A Goals Met: 2, 4, 6
Estimated Cost: Less than $10,000 Mitigation Action Type: Education and Awareness Program (EAP)
Plan for Implementation Prioritization: Medium
Potential Funding Sources:
City Budget Estimated Time Required for Project Implementation:
Within 1 year
Responsible Organization:
Construction Official, City OEM
Local Planning Mechanisms to be Used in Implementation if any:
Hazard Mitigation
Three Alternatives Considered (including No Action)
Alternatives:
Action Estimated Cost Evaluation No Action $0 Current problem continues
Elevate structure $1 million+ Not cost effective; not
feasible – facility cannot be elevated
Relocate structure $1 million+
Not cost effective; not feasible – City is fully
developed and nowhere to relocate the facility
Progress Report (for plan maintenance)
Date of Status Report:
Report of Progress:
Update Evaluation of the Problem and/or Solution:
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-26 June 2020
Action Worksheet
Project Name: Critical Facility - Passaic Valley Sewage Pump Station
Project Number: 2020-CLIFTON-001
Criteria Numeric Rank
(-1, 0, 1) Provide brief rationale for numeric rank when
appropriate
Life Safety 0 -
Property Protection 1 Provide the owner/operator options to reduce or eliminate
flood damage to the pump station
Cost-Effectiveness 1 Benefits outweigh the costs
Technical 1 Meets several goals of the 2020 HMP Update
Political 0 -
Legal 1 The City has the legal authority to notify the facility
owner/operator but not does not have the legal authority to mitigate the facility
Fiscal 1 The project can be funded by the City’s budget
Environmental 0 No negative environmental impacts
Social 0 -
Administrative 1 The City has the personnel and administrative capabilities to
implement this action.
Multi-Hazard 1 Coastal Storm, Flood, Severe Weather
Timeline 1 To be completed within one year
Agency Champion 0 -
Other Community Objectives
0 -
Total 8
Priority (High/Med/Low)
Medium
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-27 June 2020
Action Worksheet
Project Name: Backup Power for Fire Department and High School
Project Number: 2020-CLIFTON-002
Risk / Vulnerability
Hazard(s) of Concern: All
Description of the Problem:
Station 4 (fire department) and Clifton High School are considered critical facilities that provide essential services to the community. In the event of a power outage, the facilities can operate properly.
Action or Project Intended for Implementation
Description of the Solution:
Purchase and install backup power at Station 4 and Clifton High School.
Is this project related to a Critical Facility or Lifeline?
Yes No
Level of Protection: N/A Estimated Benefits (losses avoided):
Continuity of operations
Useful Life: N/A Goals Met: 1, 2, 3, 6
Estimated Cost: $100,000 Mitigation Action Type: Structure and Infrastructure Project (SIP)
Plan for Implementation Prioritization: Medium
Potential Funding Sources:
FEMA HMGP or FMA, City Budget
Estimated Time Required for Project Implementation:
Within 2 years
Responsible Organization:
City Engineer, Fire Department, Administration
Local Planning Mechanisms to be Used in Implementation if any:
Hazard Mitigation
Three Alternatives Considered (including No Action)
Alternatives:
Action Estimated Cost Evaluation No Action $0 Current problem continues
Install solar panels at each facility
$35,000+
Costly, weather dependent, building property does not have the capacity for solar
panel installation
Install wind turbines $10,000+ Costly, weather dependent,
requires open space Progress Report (for plan maintenance)
Date of Status Report:
Report of Progress:
Update Evaluation of the Problem and/or Solution:
Section 9.3 - City of Clifton
DMA 2000 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update – Passaic County and All Municipalities, New Jersey 9.3-28 June 2020
Action Worksheet
Project Name: Backup Power for Fire Department and High School
Project Number: 2020-CLIFTON-002
Criteria Numeric Rank
(-1, 0, 1) Provide brief rationale for numeric rank when
appropriate
Life Safety 1 Allow fire department to stay operational and provide
emergency services to residents; allow school to be used as a shelter
Property Protection 1 Allow buildings to properly function during power outages
Cost-Effectiveness 1 Benefits outweigh the costs of the project
Technical 1
Political 1
Legal 1 The City has the authority to implement this project
Fiscal 0 The City will need to seek grant funding to complete project
Environmental 0
Social 0
Administrative 1
Multi-Hazard 1 All hazards
Timeline 1 To be completed within two years
Agency Champion 1
Other Community Objectives
0
Total 10
Priority (High/Med/Low)
High