Supervisors authorize $125,000 in Tom Hancock EMS grants after discussion of possible increases

The board approved a resolution authorizing the chair to sign FY27 Tom Hancock Memorial EMS service agreements totaling $125,000. During discussion, Supervisor (S2) noted earlier consideration of increasing the annual award and said there had been discussion about raising awards to "$5,000 per fire department." The supervisor emphasized equipment and personal protective equipment needs among volunteer fire departments.

Staff said potential alternate funding sources include FEMA firefighter grants and a paid-off USDA loan fund that could be repurposed for low-interest loans to departments. After debate, the motion to authorize the chair to sign the agreements carried unanimously.