Federal grant improves area response capability

The Oscoda Press reports on the status of the $226,467 Homeland Security grant awarded to Iosco County:

According to Twarog, Iosco County emergency personnel have long had problems communicating in the field because radio signals are blocked in some areas and agencies are operating on different systems and frequencies. This was the nature of the inner-operability which was lacking between New York City responders on Sept. 11, Twarog said. ..., the 800 MHz project will allow police to communicate with the dispatch center and, eventually, with all other emergency personnel.

The goal is to also tie in all fire departments, area hospitals, EMS, first responders and other agencies whose services could be needed during a disaster, they said. The county will also be able to use the Michigan State Police 800 MHz tower, which should save the county money and lessen the county's equipment and facility needs, Twarog said.

According to Fonger, $139,063 of the grant went to the new radio system, with the second most expensive purchase being a $52,245 automated vehicle location system that allows E-911 dispatchers to track the location of all emergency vehicles.

This is the third Homeland Security grant awarded to Iosco County since Sept. 11, 2001.

Read the whole article for the complete list of projects paid for by this grant.