(A) When, in the judgment of the Mayor and City Council a state of emergency exists, they shall declare in writing and publicize the existence of same. At the earliest practical opportunity, a written declaration of emergency shall be adopted by the Council and made a part of the city’s official records. If circumstances prohibit the timely action of the Council, the Mayor may declare a state of emergency, provided that approval of a majority of the Council is sought and obtained at the first available opportunity. If circumstances prohibit the timely action of the Council or Mayor, the City Administrator may declare a state of emergency provided that approval of the Council is sought and obtained at the first available opportunity.
(B) Upon that declaration of emergency, the Mayor is empowered to assume centralized control of and have authority over all departments, divisions and officers of the city in order to implement the provisions of this chapter. The state of emergency declared pursuant to this section shall specify the factors which warrant the exercise of emergency controls.
(Ord. 362, passed 11-24-2003)