Stimpson Details FEMA Grant Use, Fall Work Program

Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson recently announced details of use for the city’s $1.6-million Port Security Grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). A significant portion of the funding will allow the Mobile and Fire Rescue Department “to purchase a state-of-the-art boat for firefighters that is equipped to detect and shield against any chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear exposure,” he said, outlining its importance due to some of the cargo that comes through the Port of Mobile. “The grant will also provide new equipment for the Mobile Police Department’s dive team and cybersecurity and physical enhancements at the Mobile Cruise Terminal,” he added.

Additionally, Stimpson announced that the city has kicked off the fall Yes to Business program for college juniors and seniors interested in gaining workforce experience in the Mobile area. Applications for employers and program participants are now open. The city’s goal is to hire 30 young professionals to staff local businesses throughout November 1-December 17. These positions would be based on an 18-20-hour work week at $11 an hour. Yes to Business is part of the city’s Youth Empowered for Success (YES) Initiative that aims to give young people greater access to educational resources, job skills training and employment opportunities.