Counties receive communication grants

Counties receive communication grants Emergency communication capabilities across South Dakota are getting an upgrade thanks to a Homeland Security grant. The South Dakota Office of Homeland Security announced itâ�?�?s distributing more than $4.8 million to 49 counties throughout the state. The counties will use the grant dollars to purchase interoperable radio communication equipment. Counties in southeastern South Dakota participating in this grant program include Clay, Aurora, Turner, Union, Walworth and Yankton. â�?�?The equipment provides first-responders from different agencies and jurisdictions the ability to communicate with each other statewide,â�? said John Berheim, South Dakota Office of Homeland Security director.�?  â�?�?This might not sound like a big deal. However, during any incident, the ability to communicate with all involved is the key to an efficient and successful response.â�? The Office of Homeland Security will reimburse the participating counties for 80 percent of the equipment purchased. The counties are responsible for the remaining 20 percent.