Sheriff’s office seeks grant for new marine patrol unit
By Terry Murry on Thursday, June 9th, 2022 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WALLA WALLA – The Walla Walla County Board of Commissioners has approved a proposal by the Walla Walla County Sheriff’s Office to apply for a federal grant to replace its aging marine patrol unit. The federal grant is through the Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency Port Security Grant Program.
“The current vessel is a 2008 Custom Weld jet boat which has served us well over the years but has become very expensive to maintain as it is coming to the end of its serviceable life,” Chief Deputy Richard Schram said.
WWCSO has obtained competitive bids from three major manufacturers of law enforcement and military vessels.
“The purchase price of a new vessel and trailer, fully outfitted from the factory, custom built to our needs and upfitted for patrol on delivery with sea trials prior to delivery will cost $286,502.32,” Schram said.
The grant requires a 25 percent match meaning the sheriff’s office would be required to spend $71,625.58 with the grant covering the remainder. Currently, WWSCO says it has adequate funds in the agency’s vessel registration funds account to cover this match. The grant application is due June 13 and WWCSO has been told grants will be awarded this fall.
Schram said the new vessel has a longer life expectancy and is more capable and cost effective to operate than any vessel the agency has had in decades. As for the current vessel, he said it will likely go to auction.
Photo is of the current WWCSO marine patrol craft
