Lee County Amateur Radio Emergency Services will purchase new radio communications equipment to strengthen Lee County’s response during emergencies, thanks to an $11,349 grant from Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative and the Lower Colorado River Authority.
The Community Development Partnership Program grant, along with $3,500 in matching funds from the recipient, will allow the group to expand its geographic reach and resiliency through the purchase of new radios, antennas and other electronic equipment.
By Will Holford
As the population increases across Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative’s service area and more rural land gives way to neighborhoods and businesses, preserving dark skies can help protect the quality of life that makes the region a desirable place to live and work.
For that reason, Bluebonnet has, since 2014, installed dark-sky compliant, LED lights when co-op members request security lights at their homes, businesses, farms and ranches.
By Ed Crowell
Just ask any rural resident in the Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative region why dark skies matter.
Strolling onto open land and looking up at an endless array of stars, constellations and our own Milky Way galaxy can be a profound experience. Whether the lofty nocturnal scenery brings mere peace of mind or an altered sense of place in the universe, it is a powerful part of the appeal of rural living.
A $19,429 grant from the Lower Colorado River Authority and Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative will help the Heart of the Pines Volunteer Fire Department improve its response time and rescue operations.
The Community Development Partnership Program grant, along with $4,734 in matching funds from the department, will allow the VFD to purchase 12 sets of new personal protective equipment and a fire-rescue saw.
A $24,720 grant from Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative and the Lower Colorado River Authority will help the Gay-Mound-Cedar Hill Volunteer Fire Department improve its response to structure fires and increase firefighter safety.
The Community Development Partnership Program grant, along with $6,300 in matching funds from the department, will allow the VFD to purchase several new self-contained breathing apparatus systems.
