Court accepts $60,000 DHS grant to add second Axon drone with thermal imaging for emergency response

Fiscal court approved acceptance of a $60,000 Department of Homeland Security grant to acquire an Axon drone for emergency management. Chief Rector described the equipment as "top of the line" and said the grant was routed through Homeland Security and KYEM.

Chief Rector highlighted operational benefits: the drone includes thermal imaging capabilities and will expand the county’s capacity to search remote areas quickly. "Just 2 nights ago, Chris Smith from emergency management located a missing child within moments using his drone," Chief Rector said, citing a recent, successful deployment.

The court noted the grant covers the cost with no expense to county taxpayers, though annual maintenance costs will be minimal and later years’ software maintenance will be borne by emergency management. Members praised the technology’s utility for missing‑person searches and other public‑safety missions and approved the acceptance of the grant and related purchase.