Lee County Amateur Radio Emergency Services will purchase new radio communications equipment to strengthen Lee County’s response during emergencies, thanks to an $11,349 grant from Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative and the Lower Colorado River Authority.

The Community Development Partnership Program grant, along with $3,500 in matching funds from the recipient, will allow the group to expand its geographic reach and resiliency through the purchase of new radios, antennas and other electronic equipment.

More than 30 Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative members in January reported recent attempted phone scams by people claiming to represent Bluebonnet. The fraudulent callers have told co-op members that their power will be disconnected unless they make a payment immediately over the phone.