Russell County court agrees in principle to transfer grant‑purchased rescue boat to local rescue squad pending grant terms

The Russell County fiscal court moved to transfer a grant‑purchased boat to the local rescue squad but asked staff to verify grant and insurance conditions before the transfer.

Speaker 4 moved that the boat be given to the rescue squad; Speaker 7 and others signaled support but raised several operational and legal questions. The boat was originally paid for by a grant (referred to in the transcript as a 'GRAMa' or similar grant) and Speaker 7 said, "that boat was paid for totally by a grama" and that the county’s continued ownership and insurance status meant the county could loan the asset if appropriate. Members discussed removing sheriff‑specific markings and lights to make the vessel a multi‑use search‑and‑rescue/department boat.

Speakers asked whether the grant would allow an outright transfer and whether interlocal agreements affect the boat's location. Speaker 9 said there are often interlocal agreements governing equipment location and use and recommended staff check the paperwork. Concerns included an annual storage cost (quoted in discussion at about $3,600) and certification requirements for operators; Speaker 9 reminded the court that Coast Guard training or licensing may be required to operate the boat.

The court approved the motion by voice vote while clarifying that equipment that 'belongs to Derek' (lights and related items referenced in the transcript) would remain with the sheriff's office and not transfer. The transfer is therefore contingent on confirming grant and insurance terms and documenting any interlocal agreements.

What happens next: county staff were directed to confirm the grant's terms and insurance implications and to determine whether a formal interlocal agreement or documentation is required before the transfer is finalized.