Brown County to apply for rural ambulance grant created by HB 3000

Brown County commissioners approved a motion to apply for the Rural Ambulance Service Grant established by HB 3000, authorizing the county judge to pursue up to $350,000 in equipment funding for rural ambulance units.

Speaker 5 briefed the court on the program, saying the grant "is a result of HB 3000" and that the county qualifies for "up to the $350,000 amount." He explained the county would apply on behalf of the county, that procured equipment would remain county property, and that the grant rules had not yet been finalized but were expected within weeks after a webinar staff reviewed.

Speaker 4 moved to approve the application and the court moved the motion forward. Speaker 5 said grant funds must be placed in an interest-bearing account and expended within five years if awarded.

Next steps: staff will prepare and submit the grant application and plan equipment procurement in coordination with the county's ambulance contractor if the award is made.