U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $1,537,916 in federal funding for seven Monroe County Fire Districts. The funding was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG). Specifically, the money will be used for upgrades to the radio equipment for seven fire districts throughout North East Monroe County, including Laurelton Fire District, North East Joint Fire District (Webster Fire Department), Ridge Culver Fire District, Point Pleasant Fire District, Sea Breeze Fire District, St. Paul Boulevard Fire District, and West Webster Fire District. These upgrades will be used to make all seven districts forward compatible with the new Monroe County Public Safety P25 Communications System, as well as assist in interoperability with the coast guard and other federal agencies through multi-band technology.
“It is essential that we provide our firefighters with the tools they need to do their jobs effectively,” said Senator Schumer. “Our first responders are our local heroes and our primary line of defense for safety and security—it is critical that we do all we can to ensure that they are well equipped and prepared to take on any emergency.”
“These federal funds will allow our first responders to purchase the up-to-date equipment they need to do their jobs safely and effectively,” said Senator Gillibrand. “We need to do everything we can to protect our first responders when they risk their lives, and I will always fight in the Senate to make sure they are given the support they deserve.”
“We are extremely grateful for the support from Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand. These funds will allow us to become compliant with the new Monroe County Communications System and will allow us to greatly enhance our ability to work with our local, state, and federal partners,” saidTim Warth, Commissioner, Ridge Culver Fire District.
The Assistance to Firefighters Grants are 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 accessed at http://www.fema.gov/firegrants.