Final Homeland Security Conference Report Includes $338,000 for Calvert County Emergency Operations Center

WASHINGTON, DC - At the request of Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD), the FY2010 Homeland Security Appropriations Conference Report that will be sent to the President includes $338,000 for the creation of an alternative Emergency Operations Center to ensure safety in Calvert County. Hoyer first announced the funding in June when the appropriations bill first passed the House.

This funding will enable the Calvert County Department of Public Safety to meet Federal Department of Homeland Security preparedness guidelines, and help protect the safety and security of residents, employees, and the food and water supply of Calvert County, in the event of an emergency. Overall, the Homeland Security measure provides investments in the nation's most pressing homeland security needs, including security for our borders, aviation system, ports and transit, and for aid to first responders.

"The federal government has a responsibility to ensure the safety of our citizens and the security of our communities," said Rep. Hoyer. "I was pleased to secure this funding in the final bill in order to help the County enhance its emergency preparedness and response services."

The Homeland Security bill also funds two successful competitive grant programs that help fire departments in Maryland and across the country meet equipment and personnel needs, providing a $390 million investment in the Assistance to Fire Grant Program (AFG) and an historic $420 million for the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program. 

"Our volunteer and career firefighters provide an unbelievable service, and sacrifice a great deal to protect our communities, despite often having to operate on a very limited budget," said Rep. Hoyer. "These grant programs are necessary to provide our first responders with the equipment and training they need to keep their departments running safely and efficiently."

As co-chair of the Congressional Fire Caucus, Congressman Hoyer has played a lead role in helping establish and fund both the AFG and SAFER programs. When he was a member of the Appropriations Committee, Hoyer was a staunch leader in fighting to restore attempts to cut funding, and this year, spearheaded a letter to the Appropriations Committee signed by more than 85 members advocating for full funding of both AFG and SAFER. 

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