Custer County commissioners authorize emergency spending and pursue federal fire-mitigation grants

Chair Bill Kanda opened the July 29 meeting by thanking volunteers and emergency personnel for the county's response to a major wildfire and subsequent floods, saying the county had "85 volunteers from all walks of life" helping bag sand for residents. He said there were significant losses to structures and roads but, as of the meeting, no confirmed deaths.

Commissioners voted to adopt Resolution 26-36 to budget funds from the county's contingency into an "unforeseen contingencies" line and then to move money into an emergency services fund under Resolution 26-37. Finance staff explained the contingency fund contains roughly $445,000 and that the board was budgeting an initial $30,000 to backfill emergency operations costs such as food, supplies and fuel tied to fire response. County staff noted that larger, ongoing expenses remain on the county until federal or state reimbursements and matches are determined.

The board also authorized staff and the emergency manager to begin applying for a series of federal and state fire-mitigation grants, some with near-term deadlines. A county staff member summarized the grant process and compliance requirements, noting the online registration steps (SAM/Grants.gov) and that award amounts are competitive and not guaranteed. "There's a lot of grants out there," a grants staffer said, urging coordination so multiple county applicants do not duplicate efforts.

Looking ahead, commissioners said the county will track all fire-related expenses for potential reimbursement and will revisit budget amendments if operations intensify or additional funds are needed.