Several local emergency response entities in Cowley and Sumner counties were recently awarded a combined $390,078 in grant funds.
Winfield Fire/EMS was awarded the most — $89,100 for new radios.
“This generous grant, part of the Strengthening People Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) initiative under the federal American Rescue Plan, allows us to enhance our emergency response capabilities,” the fire department said last week. “The funds allocated to Winfield Fire/EMS (have) been dedicated to acquiring new radios for interoperability… this investment will not only improve our accessibility but also enhance the efficiency of our emergency services.”
Overall, $6.2 million was awarded to 72 Kansas law enforcement, fire, emergency medical services, and 911 communications agencies across the state via the Local Safety and Security Equipment program, which is the funding vehicle for the grants, according to a news release from the governor’s office in October.
“It is critical that our first responders have the equipment necessary to protect and serve Kansans when an emergency arises,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This funding will ensure agencies across the state have the resources needed to quickly and successfully deliver aid.”
The American Rescue Plan Act — a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus package — was passed by Congress in 2021 and signed by President Joe Biden later that year.
Congressman Ron Estes, whose district includes Cowley and Sumner counties, voted against the American Rescue Plan Act, along with both Kansas Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall.
Three other local emergency entities in Cowley County also received SPARK funding, including Cowley County Fired District 3 ($42,664), Cowley County Fire District 4 ($40,500) and the Burden Police Department ($29,700).
Two agencies in Sumner County also were awarded.
The Mulvane Department of Public Safety received $80,474 and Wellington Fire/EMS was awarded $17,640.
In Butler County, Andover Fire and Rescue received $31,050 while the Whitewater River Consolidated Fire District was awarded $58,950.
Emergency services in Sedgwick County totaled over $1.8 million in grant funding, with the county itself awarded just over $1.6 million. The City of Andale received $30,050, the Clearwater Police Department was awarded $52,095 and the Wichita Fire Department received $98,484.
