09/29/2026
🚤 SCFD AWARDED PORT SECURITY GRANT FOR NEW MARITIME EMERGENCY RESPONSE CRAFT
The St. Charles City Fire Department was awarded another grant today, this time a Port Security Grant for a new Maritime Emergency Rapid Response Craft and related equipment, representing a total equipment investment of $504,063.
The successful grant was written by members of SCFD, who identified the need, researched the equipment, and worked to secure outside funding to improve our emergency response capabilities.
The new craft will replace SCFD's current rescue boat, which was purchased in 2001 and has served our department and community for 25 years.
The grant requires a 25% City match, allowing the majority of this major equipment investment to be funded through the Port Security Grant.
The award includes:
• Maritime Emergency Rapid Response Craft — $454,842
• Multi-Band Interoperable HF Radio & Accessories — $14,600
• 12 NFPA 1955-Compliant Dry Suits — $8,136
• 12 NFPA 1955-Compliant PFDs — $7,488
• 12 NFPA 1955-Compliant Helmets — $6,048
• Handheld Sonar — $9,400
• Mobile Router with GPS/AVL Tracking — $2,500
• Band 14-Capable iPad — $1,049
TOTAL EQUIPMENT INVESTMENT: $504,063
With the Missouri River running directly through our response area, having a reliable and capable emergency response craft is an important part of protecting both the public and our firefighters.
The new craft and equipment will improve our ability to conduct water rescues, search operations, communicate with other agencies, and safely operate during emergencies on the river.
This award is another example of SCFD members working behind the scenes to identify needs and secure outside funding for our community.
After 25 years of service from our current boat, we're looking forward to putting the next generation of SCFD's maritime response capability into service.
In just the past week, grant applications written by members of the St. Charles City Fire Department have resulted in two grant awards totaling $868,531.15 in funding and equipment investment for our department and community.
Congratulations to the SCFD members whose work helped make this grant award possible.
