FRANKFORT, Ky. (Oct. 25, 2012) – More than $2.2 million in State Homeland Security Program grants were issued for 97 projects across Kentucky that will be used for first-responder, communications and critical infrastructure equipment and training programs.
“State Homeland Security Grants strengthen the effectiveness of our first responders as they carry out their important role of protecting citizens when natural and man-made disasters occur,” Gov. Steve Beshear said. “I am confident that this allocation of federal dollars has been maximized to help keep Kentuckians safe and secure.”
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funds are used to build and strengthen preparedness capabilities at all levels through planning, equipment and readiness activities.
Gene Kiser, executive director of the Kentucky Office of Homeland Security (KOHS), said local agencies submitted 211 applications totaling $11.8 million for these grants.
“These grants are in high demand across the commonwealth,” Kiser said. “The approved grants will be beneficial in helping first responders tackle their important jobs.”
Of the grants:
– Forty-nine percent, or $1.4 million, was approved for communications equipment such as alert systems, 911 projects, infrastructure, mobile data computers and radios.
– Twenty-five percent, or $701,200, was approved for equipment used in bomb detection, as well as medical, protective, and search-and-rescue items.
– Four percent, or $108,000, was approved for first-responder training.
– Two percent, or $39,350, was approved for physical security equipment and generators.
– Twenty percent, or $555,200, was approved to KOHS for planning, administering the Kentucky Intelligence Fusion Center, citizen preparedness and awareness, management and administration.
Click here to download a PDF of the grant winners.
Kiser said KOHS seeks to find more innovative and creative ways to reduce threats and dangers, enhance security analyses, continue cutting-edge training, protect critical infrastructure, and acquire communications and other vital equipment for first responders
The state’s homeland security programs, administration and staffing are financed almost entirely through federal dollars.
Add Comment