Torrington applies for $211,440 in Homeland Security grants for generator, message trailer and phone-data tool

The Torrington City Council voted Jan. 6 to authorize submission of three Wyoming Homeland Security grant applications totaling $211,440 to buy critical emergency-management equipment.

The resolution (2026-2) lists three projects: a Well 16 backup generator (change-order cost cited as $194,500), a variable-message display trailer ($14,450) and a Torrington Police data pilot device ($2,490). "The grant will provide 100% funding for the requested projects requiring no local match," the resolution text states as read into the record.

Chuck Kenyon, Torrington’s emergency management coordinator, told the council the applications were submitted in September and the city has received preliminary award notifications for the three projects, but he cautioned that federal contracts are delayed at the national level due to litigation over funding allocations. "We have preliminary award notification for these 3," Kenyon said, adding that the contracts must flow through the attorney general’s office in Cheyenne and be signed before purchases can proceed.

Kenyon described the police data pilot device as a hardware-and-software tool that can extract data from a phone with consent or a warrant, allowing investigators to review data without seizing a phone for extended periods. He described the message trailer as a portable, solar-powered public-warning display useful for road closures, boil orders and event messaging.

The council approved the resolution by voice vote. Kenyon and staff emphasized that, while award letters are received, the city cannot order equipment until the state and federal contracting process is complete.