The Millard County Commission voted to approve the purchase of drones and training funds for volunteer pilots intended for search-and-rescue operations, commissioners said during a brief discussion and voice vote.

Supporters, including Sheriff Jacobson, said the equipment would let volunteers deploy quickly and add thermal-imaging capability to find people at night. "It not only renders safety for those that are lost or injured, but it prevents us from having to use manpower and need not be," Sheriff Jacobson said in support of the purchase.

Staff said the plan funds certification for at least four volunteers to get an official drone pilot license and reimburses travel costs to complete those credentials. Officials also said the drones can be deployed faster than arranging a helicopter response and allow direct communication with a spotter during flights.

Commissioners discussed budget placement for the purchase; staff confirmed the purchase will come from this year’s budget (listed in the tourism/mitigation allocation for 2025) rather than next year’s. A motion to approve the purchase and associated pilot training was seconded and passed by voice vote. The commission recorded the approval and directed staff to proceed with procurement and volunteer certification.