Spencer, IA (Northwestiowanow.com) — The city of Spencer has hired former Clive Fire Chief Rick Rowe to critique their handling of the flood and to write a plan on how to handle future disasters. Rowe says the public wants simple-to-understand flood forecasts, and a digital warning system.

That includes the ability to originate the warnings from multiple sources in case one or more of them malfunction. Rowe tells Northwestiowanow.com a permanent command structure with employees and elected officials trained in emergency protocol should be put in place.

And – he says – Spencer might consider moving emergency services like the radio tower and fire station out of areas prone to flooding.

Rowe says things can always improve, but he comes away impressed with the fast and professional actions of city officials, volunteers, and the community as a whole.

Other specific recommendations from Rick Rowe are: Having a physical water gauge on the river in case digital measuring equipment goes down, power generators at all city facilities, and an updated communications system in coordination with Clay County – perhaps joining the state ISICs radio network.

Rick Rowe made his comments at Wednesday evening’s public forum.