By Allie Winter, STATE BILL COLORADO
Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter today announced $26.6 million in homeland security grants that will soon be available to Colorado communities.
The money will fund projects set up to help the state prepare for and respond to emergencies. For example, the money’s use includes supporting local first responders, preventing terrorism, protecting communities from natural/man-made disasters and more.
Ritter also announced 14 New Energy Economic Development, or NEED, grants, totaling $1.5 million. Aside from saving money and energy, Ritter said the grants will help create jobs and strengthen local economies. Funded by the Recovery Act, the 14 grants will be distributed across small businesses, school districts, nonprofits and municipalities. More than 200 applied for the NEED grants.
The 14 winners are: Town of Telluride, Western State College, Astralux Power Systems, Mesa County Valley School District, City of Ouray, Energistic Systems, Aurora Comprehensive Community Mental Health Center, B&H Industries, Buena Vista School District, Calhan School District, Southwest Energy Efficient Program (SWEEP), Denver Regional Council of Local Governments, Penikin Inc. and Merewether Farms.

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