Board endorses next steps for SAR vehicle and radio infrastructure funding

Klamath County emergency-management staff signaled plans to pursue funding options for a search-and-rescue (SAR) command vehicle and related equipment after a Board discussion on Aug. 4.

Ian Thigpen explained that Title III eligibility for the SAR project raised "edge cases" and would need Advisory Council review; he described ongoing efforts to pursue congressional grants to fund radio infrastructure that "would include radios for the SAR vehicle." Don Beatty said applicants must maintain active SAM registration and emphasized the two-year funding window for Title III projects, recommending a spring start for the next funding cycle.

The Board indicated support for staff to present the SAR proposal to the Title III Advisory Council and continue pursuit of grant opportunities rather than taking immediate funding action at the Aug. 4 meeting.