The Sutter County Board of Supervisors has authorized County officials to move forward with $1.5 million in federal funding that will help improve communication between first responders throughout Sutter County and neighboring communities.

The federal funding, provided through the FY 2026 COPS Technology and Equipment Program, will allow the County to purchase new public safety radios for law enforcement, fire personnel and other emergency responders. The upgraded radios will make it easier for agencies to communicate directly with one another, improving coordination during emergencies and major incidents.

"This federal funding will give our first responders a stronger, more reliable way to communicate with one another when it matters most," said Zachary Hamill, Sutter County Emergency Operations Manager. "Whether responding to a large-scale disaster or a routine emergency, better communication helps us work together more effectively and ultimately provides better service to the people of Sutter County."

The new radios will also improve communication with neighboring counties and regional response partners, helping agencies work together more effectively during incidents that cross jurisdictional boundaries. They are designed to operate across multiple radio systems, allowing responders to stay connected even as technology continues to evolve.

The investment is especially important for Sutter County's rural communities, where maintaining reliable communication can be more difficult because of distance and terrain. By expanding communication capabilities, the County will be better equipped to provide coordinated emergency response wherever it is needed.

The funding request was developed by the Sutter County Office of Emergency Management and advanced through the federal appropriations process with the support of Senator Alex Padilla, whose office helped secure the $1.5 million investment for Sutter County.

The Board's latest action authorizes the County to complete the remaining federal requirements and accept the funding, allowing the project to move forward.

"Our team has been incredibly successful in securing state and federal grants that allow us to improve services, strengthen public safety and reduce costs for local taxpayers," said Board of Supervisors Chairman Mike Ziegenmeyer. "I appreciate the dedication of our staff, the support of my fellow supervisors, and everyone involved in identifying opportunities like this that make a real difference for our community."

The County expects the new radios to be purchased, programmed and placed into service by the end of 2026. Once deployed, they will become part of Sutter County's ongoing effort to modernize emergency communications and ensure first responders have reliable equipment to serve residents safely and effectively.