Russell County Search and Rescue has asked county government for additional funding to help cover unexpected expenses and improve its facilities.
Chief Chris Money appeared before the Russell County Fiscal Court during Monday morning’s regular meeting requesting a $30,000 contribution from the county.
Money told WJRS NEWS that about half of the request will reimburse the organization for unexpected operational costs, including building repairs from this past winter and vehicle repairs. The remaining funds will help replace aging bay doors at the Search and Rescue building. The new doors would be two feet wider to allow easier access for the agency’s large rescue boat and would include electronic openers for faster emergency response.
Additional expenses include about $5,000 in upgrades to the rescue boat recently transferred from the Russell County Sheriff’s Department, including new safety lettering and converting its emergency lighting from blue to red. The organization also spends approximately $7,000 each year on insurance for its building, vehicles and equipment.
We asked Chief Money what he wants our listeners to know that they may not realize about Russell County Search & Rescue
Money says the organization’s volunteers devote countless hours not only to emergency calls but also to training, equipment maintenance and upkeep of the facility.
He added that while financial support is important, encouragement and appreciation from the public mean just as much to the dedicated volunteers who serve the community.
Russell County Search and Rescue has 31 active volunteer members, including 11 certified divers and several members specially trained in rope rescue. Their training and capabilities have led to requests from state emergency management and search and rescue officials to assist with natural disasters and other critical incidents across Kentucky.