BUFFALO, N.Y. — A civic leader in Buffalo is renewing his call to action from the federal government to help Western New York improve its natural disaster response and communications following the Christmas blizzard where 47 people died.

Kevin Gaughan said he believes the multiple governments involved in responding to storms in Western New York hinders the ability to streamline and prioritize communications and response.

So, he wrote a letter to the United States Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, asking for the federal entity to hold public hearings and recommend ways of consolidating the powers that be in the event of another disaster.

“With common sense, we should be able to build a modern, effective, equitable emergency response system and be the model for the country and the world,” said Gaughan.

Studies on the region’s preparation and response found failures in communications and coordination.

Some people had to go to extreme lengths to survive, like Jay Withey, who broke into a school to rescue himself and others in need of shelter.

“It was just a state of survival, you know? You felt helpless for a bit and you had to take matters into your own hands,” said Withey. “It’s kind of disheartening living in Buffalo. Living in the ‘Snow Belt.’ You kind of assume that we’re better prepared.”

Gaughan said he hopes the Senate Committee would consider holding public hearings in the city, especially East Buffalo, to devise a plan that would bring together leaders in the event of storms and improve emergency operations.

The United States Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs did not immediately respond to a request for comment.