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Sheriff: FEMA grant will buy new patrol vessel, funds overtime for maritime safety
Summary
The Onslow County Board of Commissioners accepted a FEMA ports and waterways security grant of $240,338 to buy a modern patrol/response vessel and fund overtime for maritime patrols; the board approved the associated budget amendment and project ordinance.
Sheriff Chris Thomas told the Onslow County Board of Commissioners on Nov. 3 that the sheriff's office has been awarded a FEMA ports and waterways security grant in the amount of $240,338. The sheriff said the total project cost is $320,450, which includes the required 25% local match of $80,112.
Thomas said the grant will fund overtime for deputies to conduct waterway patrols and will help purchase a patrol and response vessel equipped with radar, thermal imaging, and towing and rescue equipment. The sheriff explained the office currently operates an older vessel that is "well over 30 years old" and that the new asset will strengthen search and rescue, maritime security and response to incidents in the New River, the intracoastal waterways and nearshore Atlantic waters along Onslow County beaches.
The board moved, seconded and approved acceptance of the grant, the project ordinance and the associated budget amendment, and authorized the county manager and chairman to sign necessary documents. Several commissioners praised the grant and staff who prepared the application; one commissioner noted that the county's jurisdiction extends seaward for certain response activities and that improved maritime assets are long overdue.
Next steps: Staff will execute the project ordinance and proceed with procurement consistent with grant rules and the local match requirement.
