Syracuse officials say DHS grant would buy handheld radios to improve interagency communications

The Syracuse Common Council study session heard that the city is putting in a joint application to the New York State Division of Homeland Security for a grant that the Fire and Police departments typically split and use for communications equipment.

Mike Mansa, Fire Chief, told councilors the departments usually split the grant "$25,000 a piece." He said the Fire Department plans to buy six handheld portable radios if the city receives its share. "We're the fire department's gonna buy 6 handheld portable radios. And it's gonna ensure that we can talk to other agencies at large scale incidents," Mansa said.

Richoff, first deputy chief, said the grant is awarded annually and "we don't have anything specifically identified" at the moment beyond typical infrastructure or Emergency Management Office security work. He told councilors the department will provide a budget when the city submits the formal grant paperwork.

Councilors asked for follow-up when a detailed budget is ready. Richoff said, "when we submit the actual grant, we're gonna have to have a budget and I'll get that to you." The conversation made clear the current remarks represent planned use if the grant is awarded; no final award or purchase was reported at the study session.

The transcript did not specify the grant program name beyond the New York State Division of Homeland Security nor provide a timeline for award notifications. The Police Department's planned use of its portion was described as likely communications equipment but was "not specifically sure" according to Mansa.

Councilors did not take a formal vote on the grant application during the study session; staff said they will return with budget details once the city prepares its formal submission.