Council unanimously approves applying for $800,000 UASI grant for command bus; no city match required

The council voted unanimously to authorize submission of an Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) grant application to acquire a mobile command bus, a fully outfitted vehicle used to enable multi‑agency unified command at large events or complex incidents.

Fire Chief Billy Westerhausen described the vehicle, estimated at $800,000, as a large motor‑home‑style platform with slide‑outs that would provide a protected, equipped workspace for coordinated incident command. “If awarded, this grant is a 100% award grant, which means that there would be no matching funds required from the city,” the chief said, adding that first‑year maintenance and operating costs are estimated at about $10,000.

Public comment: resident Laura Davis urged unanimous approval and said the vehicle would send a message that “this city invests in giving [officers] the tools and the support that they need.”

Council discussion focused on grant timing, statutory and reporting requirements tied to federal funds, and operational examples (past local use of neighboring jurisdictions’ command buses for large incidents and special events). Several council members noted the city already complies with many statutory conditions cited in the federal application and that regional sharing of UASI assets is an anticipated part of the program.

Outcome: Council moved, seconded and approved the resolution to apply for the UASI grant and authorized the city manager to execute necessary documents should the award be made. The council will return to accept any award before funds are spent or the vehicle is purchased.