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Grant County authorizes EMA staffing change and allows pursuit of two federal grants
Summary
The board approved a restructure of Emergency Management staffing and authorized EMA to pursue an Emergency Management Performance Grant (~$30,000) and a Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness grant (up to $20,000) to fund salaries, training and equipment, with both motions approved by voice vote.
Grant County commissioners on Sept. 3 approved a recommendation to change Emergency Management staffing structure and authorized EMA to pursue two federal grants to support personnel and training.
Mr. Jackson presented a staffing proposal that would move the EMA from a single full-time position toward a two-person staffing model to ensure 24/7 coverage. After discussion, Commissioner Bartley moved and Commissioner Wright seconded a motion to affirm the employment-status change and recommend the 2025 EMA budget as presented; that motion passed by voice vote.
Commissioners also voted to allow EMA to apply for an Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) estimated at about $30,000, which the board described as population-based funding that helps pay salaries. Mr. Jackson said of the mosquito surveillance and public-safety context: "It has been found in mosquitos," as he briefed members on local public-health monitoring.
Separately, the board authorized EMA to pursue a Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness (HMEP) grant of up to $20,000 to cover hazardous-materials training and classroom materials, including hands-on exercises and specialized props. Mr. Jackson said the HMEP funds are "limited to training materials only" and indicated the county plans to host state-supported training for first responders if funded.
Both grant-authorizing motions passed by voice vote. Commissioners urged staff to provide more detailed budget and staffing exhibits as the proposals proceed.
Next steps: EMA will complete grant applications and return to the board/council as required for any associated budgeting or contract commitments.
