U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $500,000 in federal funding for the Utica Fire Department in Oneida County. The funding was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program and will be used to purchase a new fire truck, as their current truck is 30-years old. Schumer previously wrote to the Department of Homeland Security to support the Utica Fire Department’s application.
“It is essential that we provide our firefighters with the equipment they need to stay safe on the job,” said Senator Schumer. “Our first responders are our local heroes and our first line of defense for safety and security – which is why I will continue to do all that I can to ensure that they are well equipped and prepared to take on any emergency. This funding will do just that, by allowing the firefighters of the Utica Fire Department to replace their 30-year-old fire pumper, which is lacking in features like shoulder belts.”
“This funding is great news for the Utica Fire Department, which will now be able to purchase a new fire truck. Up-to-date equipment is critical for our local fire departments, and the new fire truck will help our first responders better respond to emergencies and remain safe as they protect their our communities,” said Senator Gillibrand. “We need to do everything we can to support our local fire departments, and I will always fight in the Senate to make sure they are given the resources they need.”
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency in cooperation with the Department’s United States Fire Administration. The grants are awarded on a competitive basis to the applicants that most closely address the program’s priorities and demonstrate financial need. More information on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program can be found here.
A copy of Schumer’s letter to the Department of Homeland Security appears below:
Dear Secretary:
I am pleased to write in support of the application submitted by the City of Utica’s Fire Department (UFD) for funding through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (EMW-2017-FO-00004). Such funding will enable UFD to purchase a new Fire Pumper.
The UFD currently relies on a 30-year old Pumper, which lacks shoulder belts, ABS and a fully enclosed cap. The current apparatus is rusted and costs the city an average of $6,000 in repairs.
With funding, UFD will purchase a new Fire Pumper. This new equipment will ensure Utica’s Fire Department is in compliance with the National Response Framework established by the Department of Homeland Security. I applaud the Utica Fire Department for its foresight, and sincerely hope the application meets with your approval.
Thank you for your consideration. Please do not hesitate to contact me or my Grants Coordinator in my Washington, DC office at 202-224-6542.
Sincerely,
Charles E. Schumer
United States Senator