Humboldt Co. works to get new EOC
Site next to LEC consideredBy ROBERT WOLF, Messenger correspondent
DAKOTA CITY - Humboldt County has applied for a grant from Iowa Homeland Security for a new emergency operations center, according to Humboldt County Emergency Management Coordinator Pat Colwell.
Colwell has been working with the county supervisors on establishing an EOC. In the past, the Humboldt fire station and an onsite trailer have served as command centers during emergencies. Colwell said the Humboldt City Hall would also be available if needed.
The supervisors are looking at building an EOC next to the law enforcement center in Humboldt. Colwell said he learned of a grant available for EOCs, part of $14 million in funds being allocated nationally for emergency management. The county on Friday applied for a $257,000 grant. Colwell did not know when they would receive a reply. He hopes the facility can be built this year.
The planned 18-by-75-foot reinforced building would be built according to FEMA standards. However if the grant is not approved, they will go with a building of lighter construction.
"One way or another I will be getting a new EOC," Colwell said.
Contact Robert Wolf at (515) 573-2141 or editor@messengernews.net
