County Commission To Consider $17K For New VFD Thermal Cameras, Gas Monitors

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Tuscaloosa County Commission on Wednesday will consider another round of funding totaling more than $17,000 for new equipment for volunteer fire departments in the southern end of the county.

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District 3 Commissioner Mark Nelson is expected to propose the four separate measures that will come from Community Development funding and benefit three different volunteer agencies in his district.

The funding also comes after the Commission approved nearly $28,000 in December for similar equipment for volunteer fire departments in the northern and eastern parts of the county.

"The first responders at our Volunteer Fire departments make a difference in our community these are individuals who help save the lives and protect the property of the people who live and work in their community," Nelson told Patch. " I am thankful that I serve on a Commission that recognizes the value of our Volunteer Fire departments and continues to offer our support as needed."

As was the case with the recent funding for other VFDs in the county, Nelson explained these funds will allow the departments in his district to purchase thermal cameras and gas detectors that will provide the latest technology for volunteer fire fighters.

"Our volunteer fire departments do so much for our community and I feel it is the duty of the Commission to support them as they provide these invaluable services," he said. "I can tell you from personal experience that when you make a call for help, seeing the volunteers come to your aid is something you will never forget."

Here's a look at the agenda items to be voted on Wednesday morning ...

• Englewood Hulls VFD - $1,723.36 to JMCM Consulting for assistance to Fire Fighters Grant Award.
• Englewood Hulls VFD - $5,690 for purchase of a Thermal Camera and a MSA Altair Gas Monitor.
• Duncanville VFD - $5,690 for purchase of a Thermal Camera and a MSA Altair Gas Monitor.
• Hagler VFD - $5,690 for purchase of a Thermal Camera and a MSA Altair Gas Monitor.

The Tuscaloosa County Commission will hold its next regular meeting Wednesday morning at the Tuscaloosa County Courthouse.

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