ARPA SLFRF Grant

The Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management announced the application period for the new Emergency Response Capability and Impacts Grant Program is now open.

Municipalities, counties, and other governmental entities may apply for a grant for a capital project or equipment to increase emergency response capacity or for emergency relief from natural disasters.

The grant program was created by the Oklahoma State Legislature's Joint Committee on Pandemic Relief via House Bill 2017X in 2023. The Joint Committee allocated $25 million in State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). OEM is administering the program in coordination with Oklahoma Management and Enterprise Services, the Joint Committee, and 929 Strategies.

The following projects will be considered for funding by the Emergency Relief and Impacts Grant Program:

• Training Center (new facility or addition to an existing facility) to be used by multiple disciplines or multiple jurisdictions.
• Public Safety Center (new facility or addition to an existing facility) to be used by multiple disciplines or multiple jurisdictions.
• Multi-agency Coordination Center (new facility or addition to an existing facility) to be used by multiple disciplines or multiple jurisdictions.
• Distribution Management / Staging Center (new facility or addition to an existing facility) to be used by multiple disciplines or multiple jurisdictions.
• Equipment grant to be used for communications equipment, sheltering equipment, generators or water buffaloes, training equipment or other equipment to build emergency response and recovery capabilities.

Eligible applicants include municipalities, counties, or other government entities. Applicants may request up to $5 million for capital expenditures and up to $250,000 for equipment grants. Funding will be provided as a reimbursement upon project completion.

Additional funds will be used throughout the ARPA period of performance for emergency relief needs that are not covered by other Federal programs.

Preference will be given to projects that build capacity across multiple jurisdictions, address an all-hazards approach to preparedness (including public health emergencies), and enhance the state’s overall emergency response capability. Preference may be given to projects that have previously conducted feasibility or other preparatory studies, as well as to projects in which architectural and engineering have already commenced. An effort will be made to award projects across the state by strategically deploying funds in order to maximize their geographic footprint.

1. Projects must be complete and paid by December 31, 2026.
2. Applying jurisdiction must take responsibility for funding maintenance of facilities and/or equipment.
3. Must follow any applicable building codes and participate in a historical and environmental preservation review.
4. Must be able to meet required 50% match with local funds or non-State ARPA funds.
5. If you are requesting more than $1 million in funds for a capital project, you must provide written justification including:
   • Description of the harm or need to be addressed,
   • Explanation of why a capital expenditure is appropriate, and
   • Comparison of a proposed capital project against at least two alternative projects.

• Step 1: Submit a Notice of Intent online by August 16
• Step 2: Submit an Application online by September 27
• Step 3: Complete your project and submit request for reimbursement. 

2 CFR 200 – Uniform Guidance

Guide to Competitive Purchasing with ARPA Funds

Davis-Bacon Act Reporting Compliance Guidance

Written Justification for Capital Expenditures

Find more resources from the OMES Grants Management Office.