Luzerne EMA to seek funding for equipment
LUZERNE TWP. – The township’s emergency management agency (EMA) plans to seek state and federal grant money for equipment and other necessities needed to expand its rescue procedures. EMA director D.J. Angelone informed those in attendance at a meeting this week that, since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, state and federal government agencies are insisting that small municipal EMA’s become well equipped to handle any manmade or natural disaster.
Teresa Furnier, community development specialist with the Fayette County Office of Planning, Zoning and Community Development, told EMA members they must first determine and itemize the township’s emergency-management needs, to successfully acquire the money.
“You are asking for $17,000. That’s an odd number. The government likes to give grant money out in the $5,000 or $10,000 amounts. Once you do submit your grant request, it’s a hurry up and wait game,” she said.
Angelone said that he, along with deputy EMA directors, will collect data needed to pursue funding.
“We are going to aggressively work on acquiring 800 megahertz base radios, computers and fax machines for the office,” said Angelone. “We also need to expand our rescue procedures by purchasing rescue equipment. Right now, we’re just laying the groundwork. If it’s a go, it would be wonderful.”
Angelone noted that LaBelle Volunteer Fire Department has started a dive team for river rescue.
“They have just purchased a boat and many of their volunteers are certified in scuba diving,” he said.
LaBelle’s is one of five fire departments within the township that has taken the initiative to expand the EMA rescue procedure. The other EMA members are Isabella, Tower Hill, Hiller and Allison 2.