Department of Homeland Security Initiative

1

Kristin Stiner

2017

Early Responder Funding for

Arkansas

TABLE OF CONTENTS1 Arkansas.............................................................................................................................................................. 3

1.1 State Homeland Security Governance Overview.......................................................................3

1.1.1 Points of Contact................................................................................................................................6

1.2 Funding........................................................................................................................................................ 7

1.2.1 DHS State Funding Sub-Grantees............................................................................................26

1.2.1 Arkansas State Grants for First Responders......................................................................32

1.3 Procurement Information.................................................................................................................34

1.3.1 State Procurement Agency.........................................................................................................34

1.3.2 Procurement & Bidding Process..............................................................................................34

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1 ARKANSAS

The information within this report highlights Department of Homeland Security (DHS) information specific to the state of Arkansas. Each section contains details specific to DHS governance, funding, and procurement, respectively. Relevant Points of Contact for Arkansas’ DHS initiatives are provided throughout the document.

1.1 STATE HOMELAND SECURITY GOVERNANCE OVERVIEW

Overview of the State of Arkansas’ Homeland Security Governance

Homeland Security Web Site: http://www.adem.arkansas.gov

Homeland Security Director: Mr. AJ Gary1

Organization: Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM)

ADEM: “The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) is Arkansas’ Homeland Security and Preparedness Agency. ADEM serves as the state’s coordination center for the capabilities necessary to prevent, protect against, mitigate the effects of, respond to, and recover from those threats that pose the greatest risk to the security of the Nation.”2

ADEM Homeland Security Branch: “The Homeland Security Branch assists with coordination of programs and funding that enhance terrorism preparedness efforts for responders throughout Arkansas. Some of the primary efforts include Bomb/IED Detection & Deterrence, HazMat/WMD Response, Urban Search & Rescue, and SWAT. The Branch administers the Homeland Security Grant Program which also supports the Arkansas State Fusion Center, “See Something Say Something Campaign” & community preparedness through the Arkansas Citizen Corps Program (CCP) and Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT). The State and Local Implementation Grant Program (SLIGP) is housed within the branch & is tasked with the creation of a dedicated Nationwide Interoperable Communication Network for Public Safety and First Responders. In addition, the State Fire & EMS Coordinator, located within the Branch, works with fire & EMS personnel & departments throughout the state to provide a central point of contact for information, coordination, & funding including Act 833. The Homeland Security Branch works with a variety of local, state & federal partners to provide the state with critical preparedness & response planning, trainings, programs & equipment.”3

1 “Organizational Chart,” Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/aem/about-adem/organization-chart/

2 “Arkansas Department of Emergency Management,” Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, [n.d.]. http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/ADEM/index.aspx

3 “Homeland Security Branch,” Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, [n.d.].

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The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) is the homeland security agency for the state of Arkansas. This state department is responsible for emergency management, relative to preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation. ADEM works with local governments within the state of Arkansas to accomplish the mission of the agency. There are several branches within the ADEM that focus on various aspects of homeland security. The four branches listed below comprise the Administration Division of the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management:

Homeland Security Finance and Accounting Human Resources Mitigation4

The Homeland Security Branch manages and distributes Homeland Security/FEMA grant funding to emergency responders throughout the State of Arkansas. In addition, the Homeland Security Branch is also responsible for fire service and emergency medical service coordination, which includes oversight of Arkansas Act 833 funds disbursement.5

The Mitigation Branch strives to reduce the loss of life or damage of property by lessening the impact of disasters. This division aims to bring funding to communities that are in need of mitigation assistance. This could include communities with buildings/structures that are in need of repair or reinforcement in order to properly withstand the impacts associated with natural disasters.6

In addition to those ADEM branches that are affiliated with the Administration Division, the Response & Recovery Division may also be relevant to first responders and DHS end users. Three branches comprise the Response & Recovery Division — the Operations Branch, Area Coordination Branch, and Disaster Recovery Branch. This division, as a whole, is responsible for managing many of the programs that involve state agencies, local governments and first responders. The overarching mission of the Response & Recovery

http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/aem/about-adem/organization-chart/administration-division/

4 “Administration Division,” Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, [n.d.].

http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/aem/about-adem/organization-chart/administration-division/

5 “Administration Division,” Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, [n.d.].

http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/aem/about-adem/organization-chart/administration-division/

6 “Mitigation Branch,” Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, [n.d.].

http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/aem/about-adem/organization-chart/administration-division/

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Division is to prepare for all types of disasters, providing disaster recovery services and assistance, as needed.7

The Operations Branch within the Response & Recovery Division develops guidelines and procedures for the successful operation of the state’s Emergency Operations Center. During times of crisis, the Emergency Operations Center/Operations Branch works with local governments to provide assets and services that are needed for disaster recovery and mitigation.8

The Area Coordination Branch within the Response & Recovery Management Division is important because this branch supports local and area coordinators, allowing these individuals to supply assistance, coordination services, guidance, and information to local governments (which are primarily organized by county) regarding available grants or funding sources. During emergency situations, the different area coordinators communicate with counties in need to provide assistance, supplies, and support.9

The Disaster Recovery Branch essentially works with individuals, local governments, state agencies, and private non-profit organizations affected by an incident to recover effectively. This includes (but is not limited to) rebuilding infrastructure systems, providing interim and long-term housing for survivors, restoring health, social, and community services; promoting economic development, and restoring natural and cultural resources. The Recovery Branch generates the documents that allow state and federal involvement through the disaster declaration process, and also oversees the programmatic aspects of the state and federal Individual Assistance programs and Public Assistance programs.10

Though various branches — such as the Homeland Security Branch, the Mitigation Branch — the ADEM may administer grant programs and distribute funds to communities within the state of Arkansas for homeland security issues, the ADEM is not actually responsible for the procurement of equipment for first responders. The Office of State Procurement is the state agency within Arkansas that is primarily responsible for the procurement of

7 “Disaster Management,” Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, [n.d.].

http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/aem/about-adem/organization-chart/disaster-management-division/

8 “Operations Branch,” Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, [n.d.].

http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/aem/about-adem/organization-chart/disaster-management-division/

9 “Area Coordination Branch,” Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, [n.d.].

http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/aem/about-adem/organization-chart/disaster-management-division/

10 “Disaster Recovery Branch,” Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, [n.d.] http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/aem/about-adem/organization-chart/disaster-management-division/

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commodities, equipment, and services for all state agencies, commissions, boards, and even academic institutions.11

1.1.1 POINTS OF CONTACT

The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management has a Homeland Security Branch that is primarily responsible for managing the federal homeland security grants for the state of Arkansas. The following points of contact are individuals from within the Homeland Security Branch who are familiar with the federal/state homeland security grants, as well as the preparedness initiatives supported by the ADEM.

Arkansas Department of Emergency Management

Homeland Security Branch

Building #9501

Camp Joseph T. Robinson

North Little Rock, AR 72199

Office: (501) 683-6700

Name Position Contact Information

AJ Gary Director and State Homeland Security Advisor

(501) 683-7834

AJ.gary@adem.arkansas.gov

Sheila Annable Preparedness Division Director sheila.annable@adem.arkansas.gov

Scott Bass Response and Recovery Division Director

scott.bass@adem.arkansas.gov

1.2 FUNDING

The following table highlights several key DHS grants. A synopsis of each grant has been provided, including references to eligible applicants and facilitators, overall grant program funding, as well as detailed state-specific information. Please note that this is by no means

11 “Procurement,” Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, [n.d.].

http://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/offices/procurement/Pages/default.aspx

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an exhaustive listing of available grants, but is intended to provide a representative snapshot of those types of grants that may be available. For more information about the Department of Homeland Security’s preparedness grants, please refer to the following website:

https://www.fema.gov/preparedness-non-disaster-grants

An Introduction to DHS Grants—With a Focus on Arkansas

Grant Program Eligible Applicants

FY 2015 & FY 2016

Grant Program

Allocations

Arkansas’

FY 2016 Allocations

Additional Notes – Specific to Arkansas’

FY 2016 Grant Allocations

State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) – Embedded within the Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP)

About Grant Program:

“The SHSP assists state, tribal and local preparedness activities that address high-priority preparedness gaps across all core capabilities and mission areas where a nexus to terrorism exists. SHSP supports the implementation of risk driven, capabilities-based approaches to address capability targets set in urban area, state, and

“The State Administrative Agency (SAA) is the only entity eligible to apply to FEMA for SHSP funds. Eligible applicants include all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.”13

2015:

$402,000,00014

2016:

$402,000,00015

$3,734,500

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regional Threat and Hazard Identification and Risk Assessments (THIRAs). The capability targets are established during the THIRA process, and assessed in the State Preparedness Report (SPR) and inform planning, organization, equipment, training, and exercise needs to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to, and recover from acts of terrorism and other catastrophic events.”12

Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) – Embedded within the Homeland Security Grant Program

About Grant Program:

“The UASI program funds addressed the

The SAA is the only entity eligible to apply to FEMA for UASI funds.17 As of FY 2013, there were a total of 25 high-threat, high-density urban areas eligible for funding under the UASI program.18 Eligible candidates

2015:

$587,000,00020

2016:

$580,000,00021

12 “Fiscal Year 2015 Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/15/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2015-homeland-security-grant-program

13 “Fiscal Year 2015 Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/15/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2015-homeland-security-grant-program

14 “Fiscal Year 2015 Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/15/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2015-homeland-security-grant-program

15 “Fiscal Year 2016 Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-homeland-security-grant-program

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unique risk driven and capabilities-based planning, organization, equipment, training, and exercise needs of high-threat, high-density urban areas based on the capability targets identified during the THIRA process and associated assessment efforts; and assists them in building an enhanced and sustainable capacity to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to, and recover from acts of terrorism.”16

for the FY 2016 UASI program are “determined through an analysis of relative risk of terrorism faced by the 100 most populous metropolitan statistical areas in the United States, in accordance with the 9/11 Act.”19

Operation Stonegarden – Embedded within the Homeland Security Grant Program

About Grant Program:

“The OPSG program supports enhanced cooperation and coordination among Customs and Border Protection (CBP), United States Border

“The SAA is the only entity eligible to apply to FEMA for OPSG funds. Local units of government at the county level and federally-recognized tribal governments in the states bordering Canada, southern states bordering Mexico, and states and territories with International

2015:

$55,000,00024

2016:

$55,000,00025

16 “Fiscal Year 2016 Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-homeland-security-grant-program

19 “Fiscal Year 2016 Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-homeland-security-grant-program

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Patrol (USBP), and local, tribal, territorial, state, and Federal law enforcement agencies.  The OPSG Program funds investments in joint efforts to secure the United States’ borders along routes of ingress from international borders to include travel corridors in states bordering Mexico and Canada, as well as states and territories with International water borders.”22

water borders are eligible to apply for FY 2016 OPSG funds through their SAA. All applicants must have active ongoing USBP operations coordinated through a CBP sector office to be eligible for OPSG funding.”23

Tribal Homeland Security Grant Program

About Grant Program:

Per 6 U.S.C. § 601(4), see the definition of "directly eligible tribe" detailed within the referenced source

2015:

$10,000,00028

2016:

21 “Fiscal Year 2016 Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-homeland-security-grant-program

20 “Fiscal Year 2015 Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/15/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2015-homeland-security-grant-program

18 “FY 2013 Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 9/14/16.

https://www.fema.gov/fy-2013-homeland-security-grant-program

17 “Fiscal Year 2016 Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-homeland-security-grant-program

22 “Fiscal Year 2016 Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-homeland-security-grant-program

23 “Fiscal Year 2016 Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-homeland-security-grant-program

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“The FY 2016 THSGP is one tool among a comprehensive set of initiatives authorized by Congress and implemented by the Administration to help strengthen the Nation against risks associated with potential terrorist attacks.  THSGP supports the building, sustainment and delivery of core capabilities to enable tribes to strengthen their capacity to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to, and recover from potential terrorist attacks and other hazards.”26

(see footnote).27 $10,000,00029

Nonprofit Security Grant Program

About Grant Program:

“The FY 2016 NSGP

“The State Administrative Agency (SAA) is the only entity eligible to apply to FEMA for NSGP funds on behalf of

2015:

$13,000,00032

2016:

$20,000,00033

25 “Fiscal Year 2016 Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-homeland-security-grant-program

24 “Fiscal Year 2015 Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/15/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2015-homeland-security-grant-program

26 “Fiscal Year 2016 Tribal Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-tribal-homeland-security-grant-program

27 “Fiscal Year 2016 Tribal Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-tribal-homeland-security-grant-program

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provides support for target hardening and other physical security enhancements to nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of terrorist attack and located within one of the specific FY 2016 Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI)-designated eligible urban areas. The program is also designed to promote coordination and collaboration in emergency preparedness activities among public and private community representatives, as well as state and local government agencies.”30

eligible nonprofit organizations. Eligible nonprofit organizations are those organizations described under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 which have been determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security to be at high risk of terrorist attack.  Eligible nonprofits must be located within one of the FY 2016 Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) designated urban areas.”31

Emergency Management Performance

“All 56 States and territories, as well as the Republic of

2015:

$350,100,00036

$4,547,810

28 “Fiscal Year 2015 Tribal Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fy-2015-tribal-homeland-security-grant-program

29 “Fiscal Year 2016 Tribal Homeland Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-tribal-homeland-security-grant-program

30 “Fiscal Year 2016 Nonprofit Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-nonprofit-security-grant-program

31 “Fiscal Year 2016 Nonprofit Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-nonprofit-security-grant-program

33 “Fiscal Year 2016 Nonprofit Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

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Grants (EMPG)

About Grant Program:

“The purpose of the EMPG Program is to provide federal grants to states to assist state, local, territorial, and tribal governments in preparing for all hazards, as authorized by the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. §§ 5121 et seq.) and Section 662 of the Post Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006, as amended (6 U.S.C. § 762). Title VI of the Stafford Act authorizes FEMA to make grants for the purpose of providing a system of emergency preparedness for the protection of life and property in the United States from

the Marshall Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia, are eligible to apply for FY 2016 EMPG Program funds.  Either the SAA or the state’s Emergency Management Agency (EMA) is eligible to apply directly to FEMA for EMPG Program funds on behalf of each state or territory, however, only one application will be accepted from each state or territory.”35

2016:

$350,100,00037

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-nonprofit-security-grant-program

32 “Fiscal Year 2015 Nonprofit Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2015-nonprofit-security-grant-program

36 “Fiscal Year 2015 Emergency Management Performance Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2015-emergency-management-performance-grant-program

35 “Fiscal Year 2016 Emergency Management Performance Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-emergency-management-performance-grant-program

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hazards and to vest responsibility for emergency preparedness jointly in the federal government and the states and their political subdivisions.  The Federal Government, through the EMPG Program, provides necessary direction, coordination, and guidance, and provides necessary assistance, as authorized in this title, to support a comprehensive all hazards emergency preparedness system.”34

The Port Security Grant Program (PSGP)

About Program Grant:

“The FY 2015 PSGP is one of the Department’s grant programs that directly support maritime transportation infrastructure security activities.  PSGP is one tool in

“Pursuant to the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, as amended (MTSA), DHS established a risk based grant program to support maritime security risk management. Funding is directed towards the implementation of Area Maritime Security Plans

2015:

$100,000,00040

2016:

$100,000,00041

34 “Fiscal Year 2016 Emergency Management Performance Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-emergency-management-performance-grant-program

37 “Fiscal Year 2016 Emergency Management Performance Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-emergency-management-performance-grant-program

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the comprehensive set of measures authorized by Congress and implemented by the Administration to strengthen the Nation’s critical infrastructure against risks associated with potential terrorist attacks. The vast majority of U.S. maritime critical infrastructure is owned and operated by state, local, and private sector maritime industry partners.  PSGP funds available to these entities are intended to improve port-wide maritime security risk management; enhance maritime domain awareness; support maritime security training and exercises; and to maintain or reestablish maritime security mitigation protocols that support port recovery and resiliency capabilities.  PSGP investments must address Coast Guard and Area Maritime Security Committee identified vulnerabilities in port security and support the prevention, detection, response,

(AMSP) and Facility Security Plans (FSP) among port authorities, facility operators, and state and local government agencies that are required to provide port security services.  In administering the grant program, national, economic, energy, and strategic defense concerns based upon the most current risk assessments available were considered. Ferry systems are eligible to participate in the FY 2016 PSGP and receive funds.  However, any ferry systems that participate and accept awards under the FY 2016 PSGP are not eligible for the FY 2016 Transit Security Grant Program (TSGP).  Likewise, any ferry systems that apply for funding under TSGP will not be considered for funding under the PSGP. By law, DHS must direct these funds to the Nation’s highest risk ports.  Eligible entities within other Port Areas covered by an AMSP are also able

15

and/or recovery from attacks involving improvised explosive devices (IED) and other non-conventional weapons.”38

to apply for PSGP funds.”39

38 “Fiscal Year 2016 Port Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-port-security-grant-program

39 “Fiscal Year 2016 Port Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-port-security-grant-program

41 “Fiscal Year 2016 Port Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-port-security-grant-program

40 “Fiscal Year 2015 Port Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2015-port-security-grant-program

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Intercity Passenger Rail

About Grant Program:

“The IPR Program provides funds to the National Passenger Railroad Corporation (Amtrak) to protect critical surface transportation infrastructure and the traveling public from acts of terrorism and to increase the resilience of the Amtrak rail system.”42

“The National Passenger Railroad Corporation (Amtrak) is the only entity eligible to apply for funding under the FY 2016 IPR Program.”43

2015:

$10,000,00044

2016:

$10,000,00045

Intercity Bus Security Grant Program

About Grant Program:

“The FY 2016 IBSGP provides funding to create a sustainable program for the protection of

“Eligible applicants under the FY 2016 IBSGP are owners and operators of fixed route intercity and charter buses that serve urban areas designated to receive Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) funding under the

2015:

$3,000,00048

2016:

$3,000,00049

$9,595 Eventure America Inc dba Little Rock Tours

42 “Fiscal Year 2016 Intercity Passenger Rail Program – Amtrak,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-intercity-passenger-rail-program-amtrak

43 “Fiscal Year 2016 Intercity Passenger Rail Program – Amtrak,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-intercity-passenger-rail-program-amtrak

44 “Fiscal Year 2015 Intercity Passenger Rail – Amtrak,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2015-intercity-passenger-rail-program-amtrak

45 “Fiscal Year 2016 Intercity Passenger Rail Program – Amtrak,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-intercity-passenger-rail-program-amtrak

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intercity bus systems and the traveling public from terrorism. The program seeks to assist operators of fixed-route intercity and charter bus services in obtaining the resources required to support security measures such as enhanced planning, facility security upgrades and vehicle ad driver protection.”46

FY 2016 Homeland Security Grant Program.  Charter companies must make a minimum of 50 trips annually to one or more UASI jurisdictions to be eligible. All owner/operators that meet the basic eligibility criteria were eligible to apply. In order to be eligible to receive FY 2016 IBSGP grant funding, all operators must have completed a vulnerability assessment and developed a security plan as required by Section 1531 of the 9/11 Act (6 U.S.C. § 181).”47

46 “Fiscal Year 2016 Intercity Bus Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-intercity-bus-security-grant-program

47 “Fiscal Year 2016 Intercity Bus Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-intercity-bus-security-grant-program

49 “Fiscal Year 2016 Intercity Bus Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-intercity-bus-security-grant-program

48 “Fiscal Year 2015 Intercity Bus Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2015-intercity-bus-security-grant-program

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Transit Security Grant Program

About Grant Program:

“The FY 2016 TSGP is one of the Department’s grant programs that directly support

“Eligible transit agencies were determined based on daily unlinked passenger trips (ridership) and transit systems that serve historically Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI)-

2015:

$87,000,00052

2016:

$87,000,00053

52 “Fiscal Year 2015 Transit Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2015-transit-security-grant-program

53 “Fiscal Year 2016 Transit Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-transit-security-grant-program

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transportation infrastructure security activities.  TSGP is one tool in the comprehensive set of measures authorized by Congress and implemented by the Administration to strengthen the

designated urban areas.  Ferry systems are eligible to participate in the FY 2016 TSGP and receive funds.  However, any ferry system that participated and accepted

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Nation’s critical infrastructure against risks associated with potential terrorist attacks.  TSGP provides funds to owners and operators of transit systems (which include intra-city bus, commuter bus, ferries, and all forms of passenger rail) to

awards under the FY 2016 TSGP are not eligible for the FY 2016 Port Security Grant Program (PSGP). Likewise, any ferry systems that applied for funding under the PSGP are not considered for funding under the TSGP.”51

51 “Fiscal Year 2016 Transit Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-transit-security-grant-program

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protect critical surface transportation infrastructure and the traveling public from acts of terrorism and to increase the resilience of transit infrastructure.”50

50 “Fiscal Year 2016 Transit Security Grant Program,” FEMA, 3/29/17.

https://www.fema.gov/fiscal-year-2016-transit-security-grant-program

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TOTAL (FY 2016) $1,617,100,000 $8,291,905

[Please note that this is the total amount of funding for FY 2016, only]

Additional DHS-FEMA grants with potential application to various states may include:

Fire Management Assistance Grant Program

The Fire Management Assistance Grant Program (FMAGP) supports states, local governments, and tribal governments in the mitigation, management, and control of fires on public or private forests or grasslands. Eligible firefighting costs may include “expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair, and replacement; tools, materials, and supplies; and mobilization and demobilization activities.”54

Hazard Mitigation Grant Program

The purpose of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) is to “help communities implement hazard mitigation measures following a Presidential major disaster declaration.”55 Hazard mitigation refers to “any action taken to reduce or eliminate long term risk to people and property from natural hazards.” 56 State, tribal, and local governments engage in hazard mitigation planning in order to identify risks associated with natural disasters and to develop “long-term strategies for protecting people and property from future hazard events.”57

Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant Program

The Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program provides funding to states, territories, federally-recognized tribes, and local communities for “projects and planning that reduces or eliminates long-term risk of flood damage to structures insured under the NFIP [National Flood Insurance Program].”58

Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant Program

The Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) program is “designed to assist states, U.S. territories, federally-recognized tribes, and local communities in implementing a sustained pre-disaster natural hazard

54 “Fire Management Assistance Grant Program,” FEMA, 10/26/15.

https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grant-program

55 “Hazard Mitigation Grant Program,” FEMA, 4/27/17.

https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program

56 “Hazard Mitigation Grant Program,” FEMA, 4/27/17.

https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program

57 “Hazard Mitigation Grant Program,” FEMA, 4/27/17.

https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program

58 “Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant Program,” FEMA, 8/30/16.

https://www.fema.gov/flood-mitigation-assistance-grant-program

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mitigation program. The goal is to reduce overall risk to the population and structures from future hazard events, while also reducing reliance on Federal funding in future disasters.”59

Repetitive Flood Claims Grant Program

The Repetitive Flood Claims (RFC) grant program “provides funding to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk of flood damage to structures insured under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) that have had one or more claim payments for flood damages.”60 The “long-term goal of the RFC grant program is to reduce or eliminate the number of reoccurring flood insurance claims, through mitigation activities that are in the best interest of the National Flood Insurance Fund (NFIF).”61

Reimbursement for Firefighting on Federal Property

This program provides reimbursement to fire departments that have responded to fires on federal property.62

Public Assistance (PA) Grant Program

The Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal, territorial, and local governments, as well as certain types of private nonprofit organizations, so that communities can respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.63

Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program

The Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) provides funding for emergency assistance in the event of a disaster situation.64

The table above highlights several preparedness grant programs offered by the federal Department of Homeland Security and FEMA. Based on our research, it appears that the state of Arkansas received at least $8,291,905 in federal grant funding (for FY 2016) due to

59 “Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant Program,” FEMA, 11/9/16.

https://www.fema.gov/pre-disaster-mitigation-grant-program

60 “Repetitive Flood Claims Grant Program Fact Sheet,” FEMA, 4/15/15.

https://www.fema.gov/repetitive-flood-claims-grant-program-fact-sheet

61 “Repetitive Flood Claims Grant Program Fact Sheet,” FEMA, 4/15/15.

https://www.fema.gov/repetitive-flood-claims-grant-program-fact-sheet

62 “Fire Service Grants and Funding,” U.S. Fire Administration, 4/17/17.

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/grants/

63 “Public Assistance: Local, State, Tribal and Private Non-Profit,” FEMA, 4/20/17.

https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit

64 “Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program,” FEMA, 6/7/16.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/24422

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awards connected with these DHS/FEMA preparedness grants. The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) may have also received federal funding from other grant programs.

In addition to the preparedness grants listed in the previous table, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant is another grant that can provide funding to states for the procurement of goods and services for first responders (firefighters). The following table briefly outlines this DHS grant program.

Assistance to Firefighters Grant

Grant: Assistance to Firefighters Grant

Objective: “The primary goal of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) is to enhance the safety of the public and firefighters with respect to fire-related hazards by providing direct financial assistance to eligible fire departments, nonaffiliated Emergency Medical Services (EMS) organizations, and State Fire Training Academies (SFTA). This funding is for critically needed resources to equip and train emergency personnel to recognize standards, enhance operations efficiencies, foster interoperability, and support community resilience.”65

Uses and Restrictions: “Competitive grants for the AFG program are awarded to support firefighting and EMS operations and safety, vehicle acquisition, and regional projects. Specific activities funded include professional training, wellness and fitness programs, equipment, personal protective equipment, modifications to facilities for first responder safety, other equipment and supplies that support firefighting and EMS operations and safety; firefighting vehicles, and emergency vehicles. Grants also are awarded for the Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) program which supports activities to protect the public from fire and fire-related hazards. Specific activities funded include general public education and awareness; code enforcement and awareness; fire and arson investigation; national, state, and regional programs and studies; and firefighter safety and research and development. Grants for the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program are awarded to help fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations to increase the number of frontline firefighters in their community and to enhance the capabilities of local fire departments to comply with staffing, response, and operational standards established by the NFPA and OSHA (NFPA 1710 and/or NFPA 1720 and OSHA 1910.134). Grantees must adhere to the restrictions stated in the guidance and application kit for the program and fiscal year in which they receive the award. Furthermore, as a condition of receiving an award, grantees also must agree to adhere to the award articles of agreement that require grantees to use the funds for the purpose stated in the awarded grant applications, and to meet the special conditions specified in the articles of agreement.”66

65 “Assistance to Firefighters Grant,” FEMA, 11/21/16.

https://www.fema.gov/assistance-firefighters-grant

66 “Assistance to Firefighters Grant,” Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance, [n.d.].

https://www.cfda.gov/?s=program&mode=form&tab=step1&id=c9b2b7f11fd9182b8eae9af28ffd9757

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Could Arkansas Qualify? Yes. Eligible applicants include fire departments and nonaffiliated EMS organizations operating in the 50 States, Washington D.C., the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and Puerto Rico.67

Award Data:

As reported by FEMA on September 9, 2016, over 20 organizations within the State of Arkansas claimed FY 2015 Assistance to Firefighters grants, which were awarded in 2016.68 See details at:

https://www.fema.gov/assistance-firefighters-grants-award-year-2015

Current FEMA records (dated April 21, 2017 at the time this report was written) report that 91 grants have been awarded nationally, to date, for the AFG grant program (FY 2016 funds). FEMA anticipates approximately 2,500 awards through this grant program and the period of performance is listed as March 2017 through March 2018.69

As of May 2017, organizations within the State of Arkansas claimed 1 AFG grant in Award Year 2016, totaling $69,260.70

Website:

http://www.fema.gov/welcome-assistance-firefighters-grant-program

There are additional grant programs that are related to the Assistance to Firefighters Grant, including the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response Grant Program and the Fire Prevention & Safety Grant Program.

Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response Grants

“The Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grants was created to provide funding directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations to help them increase the number of trained, “front line” firefighters available in their communities.”71

Fire Prevention & Safety Grants

67 “Assistance to Firefighters Grant,” Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance, [n.d.].

https://www.cfda.gov/?s=program&mode=form&tab=step1&id=c9b2b7f11fd9182b8eae9af28ffd9757

68 “Assistance to Firefighters Grants – Award Year 2015,” FEMA, 4/28/17.

https://www.fema.gov/assistance-firefighters-grants-award-year-2015

69 “FY 2016 AFG Notice of Funding Opportunity,” FEMA, 10/11/16

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/119095

70 “Assistance to Firefighters Grants - Award Year 2016,” FEMA, 4/21/17.

https://www.fema.gov/assistance-firefighters-grants-grantee-award-year-2016

71 “Welcome to the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program,” FEMA, 4/17/17.

https://www.fema.gov/welcome-assistance-firefighters-grant-program

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“The Fire Prevention & Safety (FP&S) Grants are part of the Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) and support projects that enhance the safety of the public and firefighters from fire and related hazards.”72

Organizations, agencies, or entities operating within the state of Arkansas are eligible to apply for these federal grant programs. Most of these grants can be used to procure goods and services for DHS end users. The Department of Homeland Security has released an Authorized Equipment List that details the types of equipment that can be procured using grant money from various federal DHS/FEMA preparedness grant programs. For example, grant money that is associated with the State Homeland Security Program may be used to procure only certain types of equipment.

Historically, the Authorized Equipment List has been set up in a hierarchical list format. Users can navigate through the list in order to find a specific type of equipment. Each equipment record includes an Authorized Equipment List (AEL) identification number, a title, a description of the item, and a list of grants that allow for the procurement of the item. There are many different types of equipment procured by homeland security agencies and entities. Though the equipment list is quite extensive, the various commodities/equipment generally fall into the following product categories:

Personal Protective Equipment Explosive Device Mitigation and Remediation Equipment CBRNE Operational and Search and Rescue Equipment Information Technology Cyber Security Enhancement Equipment Interoperable Communications Equipment Detection Decontamination Medical Power CBRNE Reference Materials CBRNE Incident Response Vehicles Terrorism Incident Prevention Equipment Physical Security Enhancement Equipment Inspection and Screening Systems Animal and Plants CBRNE Prevention and Response Watercraft CBRNE Aviation Equipment CBRNE Logistical Support Equipment Intervention Equipment

72 “Welcome to the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program,” FEMA, 4/17/17.

https://www.fema.gov/welcome-assistance-firefighters-grant-program

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Other Authorized Equipment73

To view the complete Authorized Equipment List, please visit the following link:

https://www.fema.gov/authorized-equipment-list

1.2.1 DHS STATE FUNDING SUB-GRANTEES

This section will discuss the pass through requirements, relative to federal homeland security grants. In addition, sub-grantees within the state will also be addressed.

1.2.1.1 PASS-THROUGH REQUIREMENTS

The governor of each state designates a State Administrative Agency (SAA). This SAA takes on the role of a “middleman” by working with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in order to get federal DHS grant funding to the appropriate local governments and organizations within the state. Many of the DHS grants have specialized pass-through requirements. Pass-through is defined as “an obligation on the part of the SAA to make funds available to local units of government, combinations of local units, tribal governments, or other specific groups or organizations.”74 For many of the grant programs that fall within the scope of the Homeland Security Grant Program (State Homeland Security Program, Urban Area Security Initiative, Operation Stonegarden), the state must pass-through funds within 45 days of the receipt of funds. In addition to this time constraint, each SAA must pass-through at least 80% of the grant award funding associated with the State Homeland Security Program and the Urban Area Security Initiative to local units of government. This rule applies to all states, but it does not apply to the District of Columbia, Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.75

In addition to the Homeland Security Grant Program, there are other federal homeland security grant programs that exercise pass-through requirements, as well. This information varies from grant to grant, but these are just a few examples of pass-through requirements

73 “DHS Authorized Equipment List,” FEMA, 3/7/12.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/20130726-1825-25045-7138/fema_preparedness_grants_authorized_equipment_list.pdf

74 “Fiscal Year 2016 Homeland Security Grant Program (Notice of Funding Opportunity),” FEMA, 2016.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/114411

75 “Fiscal Year 2016 Homeland Security Grant Program (Notice of Funding Opportunity),” FEMA, 2016.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/114411

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for well-known DHS grants. The Nonprofit Security Grant Program requires the SAA to pass-through 100% of grant funding to successful non-profit applicants within 45 days of receipt of the funds.76 With the Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) program, each state needs to obligate 100% of its total EMPG program allocation amount to the designated state-level EMA. If the SAA is also the EMA, this requirement is automatically met. If the SAA is not the EMA, then EMPG funds must be obligated to the EMA within 15 days of the grant award date.77 The Port Security Grant Program mandates that a maximum of 5% of the total award may be retained by the applicant for M&A purposes (the remaining 95% of funds is passed through to local sub-grantees).78 The same policy goes for the Transit Security Grant Program79 and the Tribal Homeland Security Grant Program80, as well.

Some federal homeland security grant programs are awarded directly to local jurisdictions, tribal organizations, and municipalities, while others are first awarded to the state and then passed down to these local entities. For those grants that are first awarded to the state (SAA) and then passed down to local sub-grantees, there are often pass-through requirements that have been established by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to ensure that the funding gets to the right place.

1.2.1.2 SUB-GRANTEES

The purpose of this section is to explore how funds within the state of Arkansas “trickle down” in order to get to first responders and other homeland security end users. The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management is organized in such a way that enables the state DHS to interact primarily with counties. However, sub-grantees may also include local municipalities—as well as tribes, non-profit organizations, or other emergency management organizations/entities.

76 “Fiscal Year 2016 Non-Profit Security Grant Program (Notice of Funding Opportunity),” FEMA, 2016.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/114442

77 “Fiscal Year 2016 Emergency Management Performance Grant Program,” FEMA, 2016.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/114436

78 “Fiscal Year 2016 Port Security Grant Program (PSGP) (Notice of Funding Opportunity),” FEMA, 2016.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/114444

79 “Fiscal Year 2016 Transit Security Grant Program (Notice of Funding Opportunity),” FEMA, 2016.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/114446

80 “Fiscal Year 2016 Tribal Homeland Security Grant Program (Notice of Funding Opportunity),” FEMA, 2016.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/114448

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The Disaster Management Division within the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management is a division that consists of three branches—Operations, Area Coordination, and Recovery. The division, as a whole, oversees many of the programs that relate to local governments and first responders. The Disaster Management Division prepares for disaster situations, coordinates assistance, and provides supplies/manpower in the event of a disaster. The Area Coordination Branch within the Disaster Management Division “provides assistance, coordination, guidance and information to local governments on grants available from ADEM or other sources, available training opportunities, and general information to help them operate their local emergency management programs.”81

There are 77 counties within the state of Arkansas and for each county there is a local area coordinator. These counties are organized and clustered to form five regional “areas”—each of which has their own area coordinator. Arkansas distributes federal homeland security funds by way of counties and grouped regions. The following table identifies the counties and regional areas within Arkansas.

Counties & Regional Areas

Central Area:

City of Little Rock City of North Little Rock Cleburne Conway Faulkner Lonoke Perry Prairie Pulaski Saline Stone Van Buren White

Northeast Area:

Clay Craighead Crittenden Cross Fulton Independence Izard Jackson Lawrence Lee Mississippi Greene Poinsett Randolph

81 “Area Coordination Branch,” Department of Emergency Management, [n.d.].

http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/aem/about-adem/organization-chart/disaster-management-division/

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Sharp St. Francis Woodruff

Northwest Area:

Baxter Benton Boone Carroll Crawford Franklin Johnson Logan Madison Marion Newton Pope Scott Searcy Sebastian Washington Yell

Southeast Area:

Arkansas Ashley Bradley Calhoun Chicot Cleveland Dallas Desha Drew Jefferson Lincoln Monroe Ouachita Phillips Union

Southwest Area:

Clark Columbia Garland Grant Lafayette Little River Hempstead Hot Spring Howard Miller Montgomery Nevada Pike Polk Sevier

Source: http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/aem/response/local-emergency-managers/

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The following table provides contact information for the individuals who serve as area coordinators and local (county) coordinators within the state of Arkansas.

Central Area

Rick Kelly Central Area Coordinator

Building 9501

Camp Joseph T. Robinson

North Little Rock, AR 72199

(501) 683-6734

Anthony Coy Northeast Area Coordinator

511 Union, Room 010

Jonesboro, AR 72401

(870) 935-3094

Tim Gehring Northwest Area Coordinator

715 West Main, Suite B

Clarksville, AR 72830

(479) 754-9752

Teresa Smith Southwest Area Coordinator

2500 S. Main

Hope, AR 721801

(870) 722-8545

Source: http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/aem/response/local-emergency-managers/

In addition to the regional coordinators identified in the table above, each county has its own local coordinator. The following web address will take you to a list of the counties within Arkansas. To find the contact information for the local coordinator within a given county, just click on the link for the respective county.

http://www.adem.arkansas.gov/aem/response/local-emergency-managers/

Municipal governments may also act as sub-grantees for federal homeland security grants. The following table lists the various municipal governments within the state of Arkansas.

AdonaAlexanderAliciaAllport

Cave SpringsCedarvilleCentertonCentral City

Fulton

GarfieldGarlandGarner

KensettKeoKiblerKingsland

NewportNimmonsNorforkNorman

Siloam SpringsSmackoverSmithville

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AlmaAlmyraAlpenaAltheimerAltusAmagonAmityAnthonyvilleAntoineArkadelphiaArkansas CityAsh FlatAshdownAtkinsAubreyAugustaAustinAvocaBald KnobBanksBarlingBassettBatesvilleBauxiteBayBeardenBeaverBeebeBeedevilleBellefonteBellevilleBen LomondBentonBentonvilleBergmanBerryvilleBethel HeightsBig FlatBigelowBiggersBirdsongBiscoeBlack OakBlack RockBlack SpringsBlevins

CharlestonCherokee VillageCherry ValleyChesterChidesterClarendonClarkedaleClarksvilleClintonCoal HillCollege CityColtConcordConwayCorningCotterCotton PlantCoveCoyCrawfordsvilleCrossettCushmanDaisyDamascusDanvilleDardanelleDattoDecaturDelaplaineDelightDellDenningDeQueenDermottDes ArcDeValls BluffDeWitt

Diamond CityDiazDierksDonaldsonDoverDumasDyerDyess

GassvilleGatewayGentryGeorgetownGilbertGillettGillhamGilmoreGlenwoodGoshenGosnellGouldGradyGrannisGravetteGreen ForestGreenbrierGreenlandGreenwayGreenwoodGreers FerryGriffithvilleGrubbsGuionGum SpringsGurdonGuyHackettHamburgHamptonHardyHarrellHarrisburgHarrisonHartfordHartmanHaskellHatfieldHavanaHaynesHazenHeber SpringsHectorHelena-West HelenaHermitage

KnobelKnoxvilleLafeLaGrangeLake CityLake ViewLake VillageLakeviewLamarLavacaLeachvilleLead HillLeolaLepantoLeslieLetonaLewisvilleLexaLincolnLittle FlockLittle RockLockesburgLondonLonokeLonsdaleLouannLowellLuxoraLynnMadisonMagazineMagnessMagnet CoveMagnoliaMalvernMammoth Spring

ManilaMansfieldMariannaMarieMarionMarked TreeMarmadukeMarshallMarvellMaumelle

NorphletNorth Little RockO'KeanOak GroveOak Grove HeightsOakhavenOdenOgdenOil TroughOkolonaOlaOmahaOppeloOsceolaOxfordOzanOzarkPalestinePangburnParagouldParisParkdaleParkinPatmosPattersonPea RidgePeach OrchardPerlaPerryPerrytownPerryvillePiggottPindallPine BluffPineville

PlainviewPleasant PlainsPlumervillePocahontasPollardPortiaPortlandPottsville

South Lead HillSparkmanSpringdaleSpringtownSt. CharlesSt. FrancisSt. Joe

St. PaulStampsStar CityStephensStrawberryStrongStuttgartSubiacoSuccessSulphur RockSulphur SpringsSummitSunsetSwiftonTaylorTexarkanaThorntonTillarTinsmanTolletteTontitownTraskwoodTrumannTuckermanTullTupeloTurrellTwin GrovesTyronzaUlmValley SpringsVan BurenVandervoort

VictoriaViloniaViola

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Blue EyeBlue MountainBluff CityBlythevilleBodcawBonanzaBonoBoonevilleBradfordBradleyBranchBriarcliffBrinkleyBrooklandBryantBucknerBull ShoalsBurdetteCabotCaddo ValleyCaldwellCaleCalico RockCalionCamdenCammack VillageCampbell StationCarawayCarlisleCarthageCasaCashCaulksvilleCave City

EarleEast CamdenEdmondsonEgyptEl DoradoElaineElkinsElm SpringsEmersonEmmetEnglandEnolaEtowahEudoraEureka SpringsEvening ShadeEvertonFairfield BayFargoFarmingtonFayettevilleFelsenthalFiftySixFisherFlippinFordyceForemanForrest CityFort SmithFoukeFountain HillFountain LakeFourcheFranklinFriendship

Hickory RidgeHigdenHigginsonHighfillHighlandHindsvilleHollandHolly GroveHopeHoratioHorseshoe BendHorseshoe LakeHot SpringsHoustonHoxieHughesHumnokeHumphreyHunterHuntingtonHuntsvilleHuttigImbodenJacksonportJacksonvilleJasperJennetteJerichoJeromeJohnsonJoinerJonesboroJudsoniaJunction City

Keiser

MayflowerMaynardMcCaskillMcCroryMcDougalMcGeheeMcNabMcNeilMcRaeMelbourneMenaMenifeeMidlandMidwayMineral SpringsMinturnMitchellvilleMonetteMonticelloMontroseMoorefieldMoroMorriltonMorrison BluffMount IdaMount PleasantMount VernonMountain HomeMountain PineMountain ViewMountainburgMulberryMurfreesboroNashvilleNewark

PowhatanPoyenPrairie GrovePrattsvillePrescottPyattQuitmanRatcliffRavendenRavenden SpringsReaderRectorRedfieldReedReynoRisonRockportRoeRogersRondoRose BudRosstonRudyRussellRussellvilleSalemSalesvilleScrantonSearcySedgwickShannon HillsSheridanSherrillSherwoodShirleySidney

WabbasekaWaldenburgWaldoWaldronWalnut RidgeWardWarrenWashingtonWatsonWeinerWeldonWest ForkWest MemphisWest PointWestern GroveWheatleyWhelen SpringsWhite HallWickesWidenerWiederkehr VillageWillifordWillisvilleWilmarWilmotWilsonWiltonWinchesterWinslowWinthropWoosterWrightsvilleWynneYellvilleZinc

Source: http://local.arkansas.gov/index.php?show=citylist

1.2.1 ARKANSAS STATE GRANTS FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

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In addition to the federal homeland security grants available to entities within the state, the state of Arkansas also sponsors grant programs that are targeted at firefighting and fire services. The Rural Services Block Grant Program and the Rural Community Development Grant Program/Rural Fire Protection Grant Program are two programs that may be used to procure equipment for first responders (with firefighters and fire stations being the focus). A Description of these two programs is as follows:

Rural Community Development Grant Program/Rural Fire Protection Grant Program: Applicants from incorporated towns of less than 3,000 in population and unincorporated rural areas are eligible for up to $15,000 in matching funds under this program. The match ratio on the program is 50/50. Communities wishing to apply for projects under the program must provide one half of the cost of the project as match. Match may be comprised of in-kind labor, in-kind materials or cash and must be available at the time of application. Applications for this program are accepted August through March of each year. Communities in the past have received funding for baseball/softball fields, community centers, walking tracks, park and playground equipment, pavilions, picnic tables, and library shelving.  Fire departments have received funding for new fire stations, additional bays for existing stations, turn-out gear, communications equipment, fire trucks, SCBA's, extrication equipment and brush trucks.82

Rural Services Block Grant Program

The RSBGP funds new construction or renovation of community centers, fire stations, or multi-purpose buildings, and the purchase of fire trucks (pumper, tanker, brush or certain service trucks). This grant is made possible through a partnership with the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. Applicants are eligible for up to $75,000.  The match for this grant is 10% and may be comprised of in-kind labor, in-kind materials or cash. Grants are available to incorporated towns and rural communities with a population of less than 3,000. Additionally, the community population must be at least 51% Low to Moderate income.83

82 “Rural Community Development Grant Program/Rural Fire Protection Grant Program,” Arkansas Department of Rural Services, [n.d.].

http://ruralservices.arkansas.gov/grants/

83 “Rural Services Block Grant Program,” Arkansas Department of Rural Services, [n.d.].

http://ruralservices.arkansas.gov/grants/

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Both of these grants are available to communities within the state of Arkansas in FY2015. The fact that these two grant programs are specifically sponsored by the state sets them apart from some of the other federal DHS grants that were mentioned in previous sections.

1.3 PROCUREMENT INFORMATION

This section highlights Arkansas’ process for procuring homeland security-related goods and services.

1.3.1 STATE PROCUREMENT AGENCY

The Office of State Procurement is the state agency responsible for the purchasing of goods and services within the state of Arkansas. The Office of State Procurement operates within the Department of Finance and Administration. The State Procurement Director is the primary administrator for the Office of State Procurement and this individual is appointed by the Director of the Department of Finance and Administration. The State Procurement Director procures or supervises the procurement of all commodities and services for state agencies not having an agency procurement official. Each agency procurement official establishes and manages the procurement procedures for their respective state agency. This person also ensures that the agency is adhering to proper administrative procedures and state procurement regulations.84

Arkansas Department of Emergency Management

Building #9501

Camp Joseph T. Robinson

North Little Rock, AR 72199

Name Position Contact Information

Edward Armstrong Director of Procurement (501) 324-9316

Edward.Armstrong@dfa.arkansas.gov

84 “Procurement Law and Rules,” State of Arkansas, 12/13.

http://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/offices/procurement/Documents/lawsRegs.pdf

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1.3.2 PROCUREMENT & BIDDING PROCESS

The use of competitive sealed bidding is the default procurement process within the state of Arkansas; however, there are exceptional situations that may involve competitive sealed proposals, small procurements, proprietary or sole source procurements, emergency procurements, multiple award contracts, or special procurements.

Competitive sealed bidding is a common method of procuring items within the state of Arkansas. This process begins with an invitation to bid, which includes a purchase description and all contractual items. The invitation to bid (ITB) must be released between 5-30 days prior to the scheduled bid opening. The ITB must be posted using electronic media (such as the Internet) and it must be published in at least one newspaper that is circulated throughout the state. Bids are opened publicly at a pre-designated place and time. The contract is awarded to the bidder who has submitted the lowest bid that meets the criteria established within the initial invitation to bid. For the most part, contracts that exceed $25,000 are procured using the competitive sealed bidding method. If the anticipated cost associated with a contract for information technology products or services is $100,000 or more, the agency must submit the invitation for bid, request for proposal, or request for qualifications to the Department of Finance and Administration Office of Intergovernmental Services State Technology Planning (STP).85

When the use of competitive sealed bidding is not practical, contracts may be awarded through the use of competitive sealed proposals. Public notice is required for competitive sealed proposals and the same guidelines proposed for competitive sealed bids are implemented for competitive sealed proposals. Awards are given to the offeror whose written proposal is determined to be the most advantageous to the state. Price, as well as other evaluation/criteria outlined in the original request for proposals, will influence the state’s decision. A competitive sealed proposal is often used if the bidder’s ability—such as the degree of technical or professional experience—has an impact on vendor selection. In other words, if price is not the only consideration then the use of competitive sealed proposals would be appropriate.86

A small procurement is any procurement that does not exceed a price of $5,000. These types of small purchases can be carried out without the use of competitive sealed bids; however, ensuring competition among vendors is still a factor. Proprietary or sole source

85 “Procurement Law and Rules,” State of Arkansas, 9/16.

http://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/offices/procurement/Documents/lawsRegs.pdf

86 “Procurement Law and Rules,” State of Arkansas, 9/16.

http://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/offices/procurement/Documents/lawsRegs.pdf

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procurements require that the State Procurement Director, the head of a procurement agency, or a designee of either of these entities (above the level of agency procurement official) determine, in writing, that it is not practicable to use anyone or anything other than the designated/required commodity or service. For emergency procurements, the state agency must receive three competitive bids unless the emergency is critical. All emergency procurements need to be approved by either the State Procurement Director, the head of a procurement agency, or a designee of either of these officers. Competitive bidding is a method that can be used to procure items or services with a purchase price that is more than $5,000, but less than or equal to $25,000. The competitive bidding method allows the state to obtain bids by direct mail request, telephone, telegraph, written form, or electronic media. If three competitive bids are not received for a purchase where bids are required, the bid form needs to show the names of at least three companies that were contacted in an attempt to collect bids.87

There are many exceptions, details, and nuances affiliated with state procurement policy. For more detailed information regarding the procurement of goods and services for the state of Arkansas, please visit the following link:

http://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/offices/procurement/Documents/lawsRegs.pdf

87 “Procurement Law and Rules,” State of Arkansas, 9/16.

http://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/offices/procurement/Documents/lawsRegs.pdf

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