Friday, March 29, 2024

Southlake Fire Department is Awarded Emergency Management Performance Grant

For the second year in a row, the Southlake Fire Department has received an Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This year’s grant, worth nearly thirty-six thousand dollars, will greatly assist the department’s emergency preparedness efforts.

The performance grant is awarded to agencies that adhere to a strict set of criterion. It also helps state and local agencies maintain a comprehensive emergency preparedness system, which plays a vital role in national preparedness.

Eligibility requirements for the grant are:

  • Conducting three exercises per year including; at least one exercise that involves staff members working through an emergency scenario
  • Conduct public outreach to a large portion of the City of Southlake
  • Meet certain professional development and training standards
  • Participate in three joint exercises per year involving other organizations. For example: Carroll ISD or Gateway Church
  • Produce financial, progress, and quarterly reports

In 2015, The Southlake Fire Department applied for the performance grant and was awarded $28,622. This year, the grant awarded was $35,977. Fire Chief Mike Starr says, “This grant money allows us the opportunity to be cost effective while enhancing programs in fire services and emergency management.”

A portion of the grant money has been used to hire a part-time planner and assistant for emergency management operations. “This person plays a key role in increasing the level of service we offer to the public and the City which is one of our top priorities,” adds Chief Starr.

If you would like more information or have questions, please contact our Emergency Management Coordinator Ben Williamson at bwilliamson@ci.southlake.tx.us.

 

 

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