Other state and local agencies receive more than $50 million in grants

By CHRIS THORN

With the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 attack just around the corner, Washington State awarded more than $50 million in federal Homeland Security grants.

“A terrorist attack in Washington state is something no one wants to imagine, but something we must be prepared for,” Gov. Chris Gregoire said. “Our state has already taken many steps to increase emergency preparedness, but this allocation will go a long way toward enhancing protection of our communities. These grants also reflect the state’s long-standing commitment to addressing our homeland security needs, especially through our non-profit and tribal partners.”

The Yakama Nation was among the recipients of the federal dollars, set to receive a total of $430,000. The Yakama Nation received the funds from the state’s Tribal Homeland Security Grant Program.

The state said the funds are to strengthen the United States against risks associated with potential attacks.

“Despite budget reductions, our state remains in the upper quarter of the states and territories for total homeland security grant awards,” said Maj. Gen. Timothy J. Lowenberg, the state’s Homeland Security Advisor and Military Department director.   “Homeland security capability gaps remain in many areas, and so we must continue to push for a homeland security system that allows state and local jurisdictions the flexibility to prioritize their homeland security threats and to determine how best to reduce those threats.”

Other tribes receiving grants across the state include:

Lummi Nation, $4,649.

Makah Tribe, $49,740.

Puyallup Tribal Council, $588,913.

Quileute Tribe, $160,122.

Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe, $399,000. 

The confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation. $430,000.

Tulalip Tribes of the Tulalip Reservation, $137.000.

Along with the Yakama Nation, the state also received $9.1 million in funds to implement state homeland security strategies . Of the $9.1 million, $3.1 million will be for law enforcement terrorism prevention activities.

The state also receive a $6.7 million Emergency Management Performance grant.