Commission ratifies six‑month lease for modular medical units; FEMA funds cover initial months

The Utah County Commission approved two agenda items to secure modular/mobile medical units for pandemic response, instructing staff to change the paperwork language from “purchase” to “lease.”

Peter Quitner of Utah County Emergency Management told the commission the facilities’ costs are eligible under FEMA Public Assistance through March (into April) and that the county had negotiated an initial six‑month lease with an option to extend. Quitner said the county expected FEMA to cover several initial months; for any months not covered by FEMA, staff said other funding sources — including ARPA allocations — could be used. A commissioner later reported a Teams message indicating ARPA approval had been obtained for the two additional months if necessary.

Why it matters: The modular units are intended for surge or mobile public‑health functions tied to COVID response. Commissioners clarified the procurement and funding structure before voting.

What’s next: Staff will finalize lease paperwork reflecting 'lease' rather than 'purchase' and will follow up on FEMA reimbursement and ARPA approvals as required.