Merrimack County OKs application for $1.52 million in federal funds to upgrade emergency radio system and buy generator

Merrimack County commissioners voted Feb. 20 to apply for $1,523,891.86 in Congressionally Directed Spending to bolster emergency communications and backup power, approving the request unanimously.

Sheriff David Croft and Dispatch Supervisor Ian Coughlin presented the proposal for the Communications Division, saying the radio-system upgrade would add redundancy and backup capability and require significant hardware and software investment. The Sheriff’s Office requested $1,185,032.28 for the radio project. Development Coordinator Kara Coffey said she is preparing a related request for a backup-generator project totaling $338,859.58; the board agreed to submit both requests together before the March 6 deadline.

Commissioner Lovlien moved to authorize application for the combined package; Commissioner Shurtleff seconded and the motion carried, 3–0. Commissioners emphasized that grant applications should be coordinated through Development Coordinator Coffey to ensure transparency.

Why it matters: The radio upgrade is intended to strengthen county-wide emergency communications redundancy; the generator funding would support continuity of operations during extended outages. Because the projects carry significant upfront costs, the county is pursuing federal CDS funding through the office of U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen.

What’s next: Coffey will submit the CDS package before the March 6 deadline. If funded, the county will still need to finalize procurement, scopes of work, and any matching or maintenance commitments identified in grant award terms.