Despite low risk, Montana gets funds to combat terror

Montana’s slice of the $110 billion spent on homeland security since the 2001 terrorist attacks is tiny, but with holes in security in high-risk areas some question why it needs money at all.

The state is one of 10 the government identified as at the lowest risk of being attacked.

With money coming from — and going into — different pots, it’s difficult to pinpoint exactly how much Montana received in the last five years. Looking at money given to state and local agencies, the allocation approaches $200 million, or $219 per person.

Cascade County chose to use its money to buy radio equipment to make it possible for police, deputies, firefighters and other emergency responders to communicate directly with each other. Right now, $500,000 of that equipment sits in boxes at the police department — without another $650,000 to finish the system it’s useless.

By KIM SKORNOGOSKI
Tribune Staff Writer

Full Story: http://www.greatfallstribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060911/NEWS01/609110302/1002