Ocean County will be awarded a $731,066 Homeland Security Grant to enhance its capabilities to respond to acts of terrorism involving chemical and biological agents, as well as radiological, nuclear and explosive devices.
"The horrible acts of Sept. 11 have changed our landscape," said Freeholder John P. Kelly, who serves as director of law and public safety. "Terrorism is no longer something that happens in foreign lands and we need to be ever-vigilant in making certain our county is safe and prepared."
According to a press release, a portion of the grant money, $345,238, will be used for the implementation of a county Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Certification Program. The funds will be used to outfit and equip at least one team.
The additional $385,828 will be used for security upgrades at county "hot spots."
The money also will be used to support specialized equipment needs for police, fire and emergency services units as well as to train people on how to use the equipment.
"Various county and local agencies have already been identified as recipients of this money," said Ocean County Sheriff William L. Polhemus, who oversees the county’s Office of Emergency Management. "Based on the nature of these activities, however, it’s important to remember we cannot divulge specific information which could compromise security."
Kelly noted the money is being administered through the Office of Emergency Management and the Office of Counter Terrorism, which includes the Sheriff’s Department and the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.
"The money is being provided to enhance the capabilities of state, county and local units of government to respond to acts of terrorism involving chemical and biological agents, as well as radiological, nuclear and explosive devices," Kelly said. "Do we hope we never have to use this training? Of course we do. Can we ignore this? Of course not."
Kelly noted the sheriff’s department and law enforcement agencies throughout the county take the threat of terrorism very seriously.
"This will not be the first training to occur in the county," Kelly said. "This grant will enhance those programs and instructions that have been ongoing."