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County hears state grant offer to replace emergency sirens and gets updates on communications tower and generator plans
Summary
Table Rock Alerting Systems told commissioners a state grant of $500,000 to $1 million could fund replacement and expansion of emergency sirens; the court also received a Phase II communications tower update, generator maintenance plans and a FEMA reimbursement concern that staff will investigate further.
Hamilton County officials heard a presentation on Tuesday about a potential state grant to replace and expand the county's emergency siren network and reviewed several infrastructure and resilience items.
Cruz Berry of Table Rock Alerting Systems, LLC presented grant information to the Commissioners, saying the state is offering a grant ranging from $500,000 up to $1,000,000 to replace the current emergency sirens and increase the total number of sirens across the county. The court agreed to review the information and place the item on a future agenda for possible action.
Staff updated commissioners on Phase II of the county's communications tower project: Bearcom delivered equipment to both tower sites on Feb. 3, and racks, shelving and electrical were being installed Feb. 10'12. The project is reported to be on schedule. County staff said they are coordinating with Lampasas and Mills counties to explore adding a third tower in the southwestern portion of Hamilton County, potentially using grant funds.
Commissioner Johnny Wagner asked that the courthouse's resilience be considered in upcoming budget discussions, including exploring a Generac backup unit to protect against freezing and burst pipes in a power loss. Blake Hodges of Hunter Generator Servies will service the county generators on Feb. 24; staff member Lacy told the court she is working with the vendor on acquiring a remote alarm system and a bi-annual maintenance contract.
Staff also reported Hamilton County submitted documentation for advanced funding on three FEMA projects but said FEMA currently appears to indicate it will pay only 75% of the 75% reimbursement previously expected; commissioners requested additional details from FEMA before any further commitments.
CivicPlus will host a Zoom briefing at 2 p.m. on Feb. 17 to explain the county's new website; staff invited all offices to attend.
