Rep. McNally Announces $31,986.75 from Marine Patrol Assistance Grant Program for Mahoning County Sheriff's Office

COLUMBUS- State Rep. Lauren McNally (D-Youngstown) announced on March 16, 2023 the awarding of $31,986.75 in state funds from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ (ODNR) Marine Patrol Assistance Grant Program for the Mahoning County Sheriff’s office.

“These dollars protect people in and around Mahoning Valley, keeping people safe on the water by preventing accidents and aiding in the response when accidents occur,” said Rep. McNally. “I applaud the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office for pursuing this opportunity from the state and congratulate them on receiving this funding.”

The ODNR’s Marine Patrol Assistance Grant Program is funded by Ohio’s recreational boaters through the Waterways Safety Fund, which consists of a share of the state motor fuel tax, watercraft registration and titling fees, and funding from the U.S. Coast Guard. The $31,986.75 grant received by the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office will assist with the establishment or operation and maintenance of marine patrols, which provide enforcement of the state’s boating rules and regulations and provide emergency response to boating accidents that occur on the water. 

“I’m thankful for this opportunity from the state to support our local law enforcement and will continue doing the work in identifying more ways to help our communities,” said Rep. McNally.

The program is administered by ODNR’s Division of Parks and Watercraft, which has awarded almost $580,000 for 24 programs around the state.