Is H1N1 Just A Power Grab?

Officials declared a heightened state of alert for Macomb County,Mi. This action streamlines the process for closing schools, shutting businesses, evacuating neighborhoods, temporarily reassigning county personnel and protecting volunteer staff from liability — should the need arise. Does this seem like a lot of power to give to one group or one person? This is what they can do in my town. What can they do in yours? Does this scare you more then the virus itself?