Graves County residents will soon see improved storm warning coverage thanks to two generous donations that will fund the installation of four additional tornado warning sirens across the county.
Following a competitive bidding process, the Graves County Fiscal Court awarded the contract to Capitol Electronics (Federal Signal) for the purchase of four sirens at a cost of $38,693 each, totaling $154,772.
The project was made possible through financial contributions from Jackson Purchase Medical Center (Lifepoint Health) and the Mayfield-Graves County Tornado Relief Fund, Inc.
Graves County Emergency Management Director Tracey Warner is currently compiling data to determine the most effective locations for the new sirens, considering population density and areas that would benefit most from expanded coverage. Each siren has an estimated minimum effective range of one mile.
Graves County currently operates 11 tornado warning sirens, strategically placed throughout Mayfield and surrounding areas. The additional sirens are intended to strengthen coverage in parts of the county where storm warning systems are limited.
Jackson Purchase Medical Center CEO Dave Anderson said the hospital’s donation reflects its commitment to public safety in the communities it serves.
“This donation will help keep area residents safe and is part of our continued commitment to Graves County,” Anderson said.
Darvin Towery, spokesperson for the Mayfield-Graves County Tornado Relief Fund, said partnering with JPMC allows the organization to maximize the impact of remaining relief funds.
“The Tornado Relief Fund is pleased to provide matching funds to help improve the county’s storm warning system,” Towery said. “Partnering with organizations like Jackson Purchase Medical Center allows us to leverage donations from across the country to make a lasting impact on our community.”
Graves County Judge-Executive Jesse Perry, along with the Fiscal Court, expressed appreciation to both organizations for their partnership and dedication to enhancing safety for county residents.
