This article proscribes various policy paths to be taken in developing a collaborative plan that increases the level of readiness within a given region. Emphasizes the role of local governments as first responders to all emergency situations, acknowledges that terrorist activity requires the involvement of many jurisdictions, and identifies comprehensive planning options for managers. Also describes various barriers and obstacles managers face when attempting to plan and implement policies such as the difficulty of defining the scope of the threat and differences in organizational structure.