Sheriff requests local match for AED grant; board approves use of asset‑forfeiture funds

Sheriff Embry told the board his office applied for a rescue squad assistance (RSAF) grant to purchase automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for deputies and dispatch personnel who often arrive before advanced medical responders.

Embry said the grant provides up to $4,950 in state grant funds and requires a local cash match (described in the presentation as a 50/50 match). He presented a vendor quote for Zoll‑brand AEDs and said the department prefers part‑compatibility with equipment used by Wintergreen Fire & Rescue and Nelson Emergency Services (NIMS).

Embry told the board the department could cover the purchase from asset‑forfeiture funds if the board did not provide an appropriation. Board members asked about training, ongoing maintenance and liability; Embry said AED training and oversight are coordinated with the county’s emergency services partners and that he would provide additional information on liability and training arrangements if the board wanted it.

Supervisor Parr and other board members expressed support for the purchase and for funding the local match from the sheriff’s asset‑forfeiture account. The board approved Resolution R‑2025‑69 authorizing the local match and purchase; staff will proceed with acquisition once grant paperwork and vendor arrangements are finalized.

Clarifying details recorded during the meeting: the grant award amount was described as “up to $4,950”; the quoted equipment package total discussed in the meeting was approximately $8,700 (vendor quote noted in packet); the board indicated asset‑forfeiture funds could be used as the local match and that the sheriff’s office should report monthly on major asset‑forfeiture expenditures.

Ending: Sheriff Embry will finalize procurement paperwork with the vendor and report back to the board on training, maintenance obligations and the certification/oversight arrangement with emergency services partners.