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Yavapai County accepts contract to outfit sheriff’s helicopter for night search‑and‑rescue
Summary
The board approved a Safeware cooperative agreement authorizing FLIR, night‑vision avionics, a Bambi bucket and other upgrades for the county helicopter; sheriff’s staff said the aircraft is used multiple times weekly for rescues and urged continued budget support for operations and maintenance.
The Yavapai County Board of Supervisors unanimously accepted a contract on Dec. 3 to purchase safety and mission equipment for the county sheriff’s helicopter.
Chief Deputy Jeff Newnham told supervisors the aircraft is vital for search‑and‑rescue and high‑risk patrol missions and that recent calls required outside counties to respond because the county lacked some equipment. Newnham said the package includes a forward‑looking infrared camera, a Bambi bucket for firefighting, a spotlight and avionics that would make the platform compatible with night‑vision goggles.
Newnham said the county’s platform has flown roughly 80 missions since acquisition and averages several missions each week in high‑tourism areas such as Sedona. He said the equipment owner offered the FLIR and spotlight at a significant discount but procurement required using a government cooperative agreement (Safeware). County staff described the upgrade as necessary for safe night operations and rescue capability.
Board members asked about operating and maintenance costs. Newnham acknowledged ongoing expenses and said sustaining the platform would require continued partnership between the sheriff’s office and the board, noting the county will likely need to budget for long‑term maintenance and staffing. He also said Arizona law does not permit charging for rescues by default and that taxpayers fund the service via general revenues.
Why it matters: The helicopter provides a time‑sensitive capability for remote rescues in a large county with rugged terrain. Upgrades expand mission hours and safety but carry recurring operating costs that the board may need to address in future budget cycles.
What’s next: The board approved acceptance of the Safeware contract; staff and the sheriff’s office will coordinate budgeting and report back as needed.
