Emergency management officials in 30 western Wisconsin counties will soon be able to communicate simultaneously during an emergency through a $470,000 homeland security grant. The funding will be used to expand the West Central Interoperability Alliance’s (WCIA) Radio over IP network to 12 additional county dispatch and emergency operation centers.

“The ability of our emergency responders to communicate during a disaster is one of the most critical components of an effective and safe emergency response,” said OJA Executive Director David Steingraber. “This grant will bring innovative Radio over IP technology to more than one-third of the state’s counties, greatly enhancing local emergency communications.”

Funding Announcements

Homeland Security - Regional LE Specialty Teams Training 2007 Application Deadline has been extended to September 19. Training funds may be used by regional SWAT teams and the City of La Crosse PD Canine Explosives Detection Unit. Apply through Egrants on or before Sept. 19, 2008.

JST - Treatment Alternatives & Diversion 2009 Continuation funding is available under the Treatment Alternatives and Diversion program. Previously funded programs should apply through Egrants before September 24, 2007.

Homeland Security - UASI Equipment 2007-Deadline Extended Funds are available for Milwaukee UASI agency equipment purchases. Eligible applicants must apply through Egrants on or before September 30, 2008.

Homeland Security - CERT Train the Trainer Funding Grants are now available for train-the-trainer activities for Community Emergency Response Training (CERT). Apply through Egrants on or before September 30, 2008.

Homeland Security-Task Force Specialty Team Equipment Funding is now available for the re-powering of CBRNE watercraft in three counties. Fire Departments in the cities of LaCrosse, Green Bay and Superior are eligible to apply through Egrants on or before September 30, 2008.

Homeland Security - NIMS and ICS Training Funding is now available for National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS) training. Apply through Egrants before October 30, 2008.

Homeland Security - WIJIS Justice Gateway Implementation Funds are now available for local law enforcement agencies to share information through the Wisconsin Justice Gateway. Apply through Egrants on or before December 31, 2008.