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Henderson to seek FEMA BRIC funds to harden municipal electrical system
Summary
The commission authorized submission of a FEMA BRIC grant application to fund undergrounding of overhead lines and substation relay upgrades for Henderson Municipal Power & Light; the grant would cover 75% of project costs with a 25% local match by the utility.
The Henderson Board of Commissioners unanimously authorized April 28 a resolution allowing the city to apply for and, if awarded, accept FEMA Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant funding on behalf of Henderson Municipal Power & Light (HMP&L).
Brad Bickett, general manager of Henderson Municipal Power & Light, told commissioners the utility is considering two mitigation projects for BRIC funding: undergrounding overhead utilities in the block between First and Second Streets (Water and Main Streets) and upgrading substation equipment and relays to better isolate faults during weather events. Mr. Bickett said the BRIC program would fund about 75% of project costs, with a 25% match to come from HMP&L capital funds.
Commissioners voted on a motion by Commissioner Kelsey Hargis, seconded by Commissioner Rodney Thomas; the roll‑call vote was unanimous. Mayor Staton declared Resolution No. 25‑26 adopted and ordered it recorded.
If awarded, the grant would allow HMP&L to pursue the two mitigation projects as capital work. The resolution authorizes the application and acceptance if awarded but does not commit the city to specific contracts or a final project scope until award and further administrative action.
