Board agrees to pursue Homeland Security grant for hazmat trailer to speed responses

Staff proposed pursuing a Homeland Security Grant to purchase a tandem-axle cargo trailer to store hazardous-materials equipment on-site and reduce response time. Chris explained the department currently stores hazmat equipment off site and must load supplies into vehicles when called to a scene, and that a dedicated trailer with permanent storage would speed responses and protect temperature-sensitive equipment.

The board discussed trailer length, storage inside a garage to protect equipment, vehicle towing capacity (TJ has two trucks able to pull a trailer) and that Rochester Fire currently uses an open trailer for some items. Chris said grant funding through the Homeland Security program typically covers full cost and does not require a local match. The board moved and approved a motion to pursue the grant application; staff will meet with Dawn, TJ and other responders to confirm exact equipment and trailer length before application.