News Releases for March 2004
March 26, 2004
For further information, please Contact the Governor's Office
Hoeven: Homeland Security Funding Available To Communities
BISMARCK, N.D. - Gov. John Hoeven today announced that the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has provided spending authority for $19,421,000 in Homeland Security program funding for fiscal year 2004.
The tentative allocation of those funds had been announced late last year pending the completion and approval of the North Dakota State Homeland Security Strategy. That plan, based on a statewide assessment of risk, vulnerabilities and existing capabilities, was provided to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on January 30, 2004. The plan was approved within weeks.
“This money will go out to our communities to help us directly fund law enforcement, first responders, communications efforts and health care facilities,” Hoeven said. “They will enable us to not only improve our readiness to deal with terrorist threats, but also with other emergencies.”
This year, for the first time, DHS has initiated an effort to streamline funding to the states. DHS has consolidated North Dakota administration of three programs within its office of Domestic Preparedness. In North Dakota, local and tribal officials participated in applicant briefings during March sponsored by the North Dakota Division of Emergency Management in which specifics for receipt of funds were thoroughly reviewed. “Thus funds can start to flow to those jurisdictions upon receipt of their spending plans,” said Doug Friez, North Dakota Homeland Security Coordinator.
While continuing to direct the State Homeland Security Program, North Dakota Emergency Management will also administer a Citizen Corps Program and a new Law Enforcement Terrorism Prevention Program within the state. All three programs are integrated to better facilitate the organization and coordination of Homeland Security preparedness.
The North Dakota Homeland Security Strategy drives Homeland Security prevention, response, recovery and preparedness activities within North Dakota. The strategy outlines a plan for strategically placed resources, trained personnel, and comprehensive emergency operations plans, exercised leadership and engaged communities.
“Informed and prepared communities, combined with better equipment and resources, will provide North Dakota citizens across our state with enhanced safety and security from threats to Homeland Security,” said Hoeven.
E-mail comments to the Governor
