Wilmington council seeks $63K grant for rescue boat and concession trailer

The Wilmington Public Safety Committee meeting on May 12, 2025, focused on a significant funding request aimed at enhancing community safety and outreach efforts. The committee discussed applying for $63,000 in grant funding to support two key projects: the purchase of a new Zodiac rescue boat and a concession trailer.

The proposed $38,000 for the Zodiac rescue boat is intended to replace an aging vessel that is over 25 years old. This new boat would be crucial for water rescue operations and responding to flooding incidents, similar to those experienced in the area in previous years. The committee emphasized the importance of having a reliable and quickly deployable rescue boat to ensure public safety during emergencies.

The second part of the funding request, totaling $25,000, is aimed at acquiring a concession trailer. This trailer would be utilized during various community events, including resource fairs and outreach initiatives, allowing the department to serve food and distribute informational materials effectively.

During the meeting, committee members expressed support for the funding request, noting that no matching funds are required for the grant. Questions from the public highlighted concerns about the current state of the existing rescue boat and the need for additional equipment, such as flashlights, which have been in use for about ten years.

The discussions underscored the committee's commitment to improving public safety resources and enhancing community engagement through outreach efforts. The next steps will involve finalizing the grant application to secure the necessary funding for these vital projects.