El Paso County's Office of Emergency Management is seeking critical funding to enhance its hazardous materials response capabilities, as outlined in a recent budget hearing. Director Andrew Notbomb presented two key budget requests aimed at improving safety and operational efficiency for the county's Hazmat team.

The first request is for $25,000 to replace personal protective equipment (PPE) that is essential for the safety of responders. Notbomb emphasized that the lifespan of PPE is typically around ten years, after which it can no longer be used in the field due to degradation from use and environmental factors. This funding will ensure that the Hazmat team is equipped with the latest safety gear, including self-contained breathing apparatuses, bunker gear, and other protective clothing.

The second request involves $150,000 for upgrading two light rescue hazmat response trucks. The current vehicles do not meet the operational needs of the team, which requires more agile and capable equipment to respond effectively to emergencies. The proposed upgrades will allow for larger cargo areas to carry more equipment, enhancing the team's ability to respond quickly to incidents, particularly those involving emerging threats like lithium-ion battery fires.

Jim Rubitsky, a Hazmat specialist, noted a significant increase in incidents related to lithium-ion batteries, highlighting the need for specialized response kits to manage these hazards safely. The new vehicles will be outfitted with these kits, which include solutions to neutralize battery fires and prevent reignition.

The proposed budget increases reflect a proactive approach to emergency management, ensuring that El Paso County is prepared to handle evolving threats while maintaining a high standard of safety for both responders and the community. The requests will be reviewed further as part of the county's budget process, with the aim of securing the necessary resources to enhance public safety.