Vernon County will improve emergency backup power at three important sites after receiving a federal grant of $255,514.
The funding comes from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. It will cover the cost of installing new generators at Vernon Manor, the Erlandson Building, and a shared system that will serve the Courthouse, Annex, and Banta Buildings.
County officials said the current generators were installed in 2000 and have now passed their expected lifespan. The old equipment increases the risk of failure during power outages caused by severe weather or other emergencies.
FEMA will pay 75% of the total project cost. Wisconsin Emergency Management will cover 12.5%, and Vernon County will provide the remaining 12.5% as a local match, which is required.
The county is currently looking for licensed electricians to carry out the installation. Officials issued a request for proposals on Friday, with submissions due by June 27.
