Recognizing the need to preserve essential records against the threat of disaster, the San Diego City Council, in July, 1986, approved the development and implementation of a Vital Records Program to be administered by the City Clerk. Vital Records are those essential City documents needed during a disaster which will enable City personnel to continue to provide important services to the citizens. Vital records are also needed after a disaster to reconstruct the essential functions, the business of the City, and protect the rights of the citizens. The City's Vital Records are stored in a secure location in the Midwest.