Washington – Congressman Dale E. Kildee (D-MI) announced today that $38,571 in federal funding will be awarded to agencies in Genesee County to enhance homeland security in the region.

The funds come from the FY 2006 Appropriations Act for the Department of Homeland Security, which Congressman Kildee helped secure.

“It is crucial that our communities are prepared for emergencies,” Congressman Kildee said. “These funds will provide vital tools and resources to protect local families from the unthinkable.”

The funding will be awarded to the following recipients in Genesee County:

·        $4,564 for the Clio Police Department to purchase night vision equipment.

·        $4,564 for the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office in Flint to purchase night vision equipment.

·        $10,553 for the City of Flint Police Department to purchase thermal imaging equipment, which typically consists of a surveillance camera that can detect activity through smoke, fog, rain and darkness.  

·        $10,553 for the Michigan State Police in Flint to purchase thermal imaging equipment.

·        $8,337 for the Mt. Morris Township Fire Department to purchase thermal imaging equipment.

These grants are part of the Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program, which works to enhance local regional response capabilities, risk management abilities and interoperable communications.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security awarded these grants with funds appropriated by Congress.