Lewis County Fiscal Court rejects Camp Dix Fire Department bid and seeks additional funding

In a recent Lewis County Fiscal Court meeting, officials took significant steps to address community safety and infrastructure needs, particularly focusing on the Camp Dix Volunteer Fire Department and emergency preparedness initiatives.

One of the key discussions involved the rejection of bids for renovations at the Camp Dix Volunteer Fire Department. The lowest bid received was approximately $400,000, which exceeded the available funding. County officials expressed their commitment to securing additional funds and revisiting the project timeline to ensure it can move forward. The court unanimously approved a motion to reject the current bids, allowing more time to explore funding options.

In a related effort, the court approved the submission of a pre-application to the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) for additional funding to support the Camp Dix project. This collaborative approach aims to enhance the fire department's capabilities, ensuring it can better serve the community.

The meeting also highlighted plans for a new warning siren and generator installation at Tolesburg Christian Church, aimed at improving emergency response capabilities. The estimated cost for the siren is just under $30,000, with a 25% local match required. The church has expressed willingness to cover this match, reinforcing community partnerships in emergency preparedness.

Additionally, the court discussed the potential relocation of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to a more suitable facility. This move would require preliminary design funding, which officials are exploring through FEMA grants. The proposed site is seen as advantageous due to its structural integrity and existing generator, which would enhance the county's emergency response infrastructure.

The court also addressed environmental concerns by applying for the Kentucky 319 grant, which focuses on watershed management to mitigate flooding issues in Lewis County. This initiative aims to develop a comprehensive plan to address flooding sources, with an estimated project cost of around $267,000.

Lastly, officials discussed the need for a wildfire management plan, prompted by recent wildfire incidents in the area. A motion was made to apply for federal funding to develop this plan, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to protect the community from future wildfire threats.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to enhancing public safety and infrastructure through strategic planning and community collaboration. As these initiatives progress, residents can expect improvements in emergency response capabilities and environmental management in Lewis County.