Broadwater Trust approves funding toward modern rescue boat for county search and rescue

Broadwater County Search and Rescue won Trust approval on March 3 for funding toward a new rescue vessel to replace a 42‑year‑old boat, which volunteers said was increasingly expensive to maintain and limited response capability.

"The new boat we proposed to acquire will provide improved stability and maneuverability in rough and or shallow waters," said Timothy McAlpine, a Search and Rescue member, describing features such as a jet drive, increased patient capacity and a retractable ladder to facilitate beaching and rescues. President Eric Crush explained volunteers use the existing boat for drownings, medical evacuations and other emergencies on Canyon Prairie Lake and that newer navigation and rescue equipment would reduce downtime.

Applicants presented an estimate for the outfitted vessel of $179,000, and they reported that the manufacturer offered a $40,000 discount. The board made a motion to fund the project and recorded a Trust payment amount of $123,726.50 at the meeting; trustees said they would forward a recommendation to the county commission and issue a formal approval letter once administrative steps are complete.

A trustee disclosed a spouse holds an officer role in the Search and Rescue group; the trustee said they were not an officer and participated in discussion and vote. Trustees asked applicants to provide final equipment lists and confirm storage arrangements for the new boat. The motion passed by voice vote.