Lake County has announced its intention to use federal Title III funds from the 2024-2025 fiscal year under the Security Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act, which was reauthorized in 2025 and extends through fiscal year 2028. The county plans to allocate these funds for several initiatives aimed at improving wildfire protection and emergency response.
The proposed uses include supporting activities under the Firewise Communities Program to enhance the safety of residents and property against wildfires. Additionally, funds will be used to reimburse the county for search and rescue operations and other emergency services conducted on federal lands, such as firefighting and law enforcement patrols. Training costs and equipment purchases directly related to these emergency services are also covered by this funding. Another priority is developing and implementing the Lake County Community Wildfire Protection Plan.
A public comment period on these intended uses is now open for 45 days following this notice. After the comment period closes, the topic will be placed on the agenda of a Lake County Board of Commissioners meeting, expected approximately two weeks later. Written comments must be submitted to either the Commissioner’s Office at 616 Third Ave or the Emergency Management Office at 601 Third Ave in Two Harbors, Minnesota.
For more information about submitting comments or details regarding fund usage, community members can contact Warren LaPlante, Emergency Management Director, at 218-510-0624 (warren.laplante@co.lake.mn.us), or Matt Huddleston, Lake County Administrator, at 218-834-8320 (matthew.huddleston@co.lake.mn.us).
