Local Emergency Projects Back on Track as FEMA Reopens Key Grant Program

For local fire departments, schools, and city planners in Boardman and across Morrow County, a major source of federal funding is finally flowing again. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced it will resume its Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program after a year-long pause, mandated by a federal court order.

The BRIC program is a critical tool for communities like ours, providing pre-disaster funds to bolster defenses against wildfires, floods, and other natural hazards. The hiatus had put several local hazard mitigation projects in a state of uncertainty, delaying planning and potential construction aimed at protecting public infrastructure.

“This is welcome news for Eastern Oregon,” said a local emergency manager who asked not to be named ahead of official announcements. “Whether it’s upgrading irrigation canal safety, funding community wildfire risk reduction plans, or helping our schools become more resilient, these grants are vital. That year of waiting meant we were all stuck in a holding pattern.”

The program’s suspension stemmed from a lawsuit challenging how FEMA calculated funding awards. With the court order now directing FEMA to revise its formula and resume operations, local officials can begin preparing new applications. The focus on “pre-disaster” mitigation is key for our region, where proactive investment can prevent far costlier recovery efforts down the line.

City administrators and county commissioners are now reviewing potential projects that could qualify under the revived BRIC program. Community leaders encourage local organizations with ideas for strengthening Boardman’s resilience to reach out to the Morrow County Emergency Management office as the grant window reopens.