Oregon prepares for fourth round of SPIRE grants for emergency equipment

The Oregon State Legislature's Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Public Safety convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss critical funding initiatives aimed at enhancing emergency preparedness across the state. A key focus of the meeting was the State Preparedness and Incident Response Equipment Grant Program, known as SPIRE, which provides essential emergency equipment to local governments and nonprofit organizations.

The SPIRE program, which has been operational since 2017, allows eligible entities to apply for grants to acquire vital equipment such as mobile generators, communication tools, and search and rescue gear. With a total of $15 million allocated over three funding rounds, the program has consistently seen high demand, with applications outnumbering available funds by three to one. This overwhelming interest underscores the program's importance in bolstering local emergency response capabilities.

As the committee prepares for the fourth round of SPIRE funding, they are set to present a new list of equipment to the Oregon Homeland Security Council for approval. This step is crucial as it will pave the way for opening the next round of grant applications. However, the continuation of this funding is contingent upon the passage of House Bill 2753, which would enable further bond financing in October.

During the meeting, concerns were raised about the program's limitations, particularly regarding the lack of funding for administrative costs associated with managing SPIRE grants. As federal funding sources dwindle, the ability to sustain these essential projects may be jeopardized without adequate state support for staffing.

Additionally, the committee confirmed that rural fire protection agencies are eligible for SPIRE grants, highlighting the program's inclusive approach to enhancing public safety across diverse communities.

As Oregon moves forward with these initiatives, the outcomes of the SPIRE program and the potential passage of House Bill 2753 will play a significant role in shaping the state's emergency preparedness landscape, ultimately impacting the safety and resilience of its residents.