Russell County approves regional technical-rescue MOU to expand swift-water and search-and-rescue cooperation
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Summary
Supervisors approved an MOU to form a multi-county technical-rescue team (including swift-water and ground search-and-rescue), incorporating assets from dissolved groups and enabling FEMA/BDM regional registration and grant opportunities; Sheriff Watson agreed to lend equipment and personnel.
The Russell County Board of Supervisors voted Dec. 8 to approve a memorandum of understanding to expand a regional technical-rescue capability for swift-water, still-water and ground search-and-rescue operations.
Presenters told the board the MOU would consolidate assets from previously independent units — including the Cleveland Life Saving Crew and other local fire departments — under a single regional framework that could be registered with BDM as a deployable asset and open opportunities for FEMA and grant funding.
Speakers emphasized that the MOU does not request county funds at this time; instead, it formalizes cooperation among agencies. The presenter said: "This is not asking for any money or anything like that. It's just for you guys to agree that we all work together with the surrounding counties to perform these services." The board amended the motion to authorize signatories to extend invitations to additional counties or agencies if beneficial and approved the MOU by voice vote.
Sheriff Watson and departmental representatives said some deputies have completed water-rescue training and that donated equipment would be shared. Board members applauded the regional approach as a way to improve response capability without imposing immediate new costs on the county.
What happens next: county staff and legal counsel will finalize the MOU language consistent with the board amendment and support outreach to neighboring counties and regional partners for possible expansion of the team.
Representative quotes from the meeting: "This is not asking for any money or anything like that. It's just for you guys to agree that we all work together with the surrounding counties to perform these services," the presenter said when describing the MOU.
The board approved the MOU and an amendment authorizing expansion to additional agencies.