The total cost of the project is $238,530, and the city will cover $21,684 of the cost. FEMA requires departments to provide a 10 percent match.
Fire Chief Mark Ashworth said city leaders on Monday night approved advertising for bids/proposals.
The department applied for the grant during the 2017 application period and was notified they received the award on Sept. 14, 2018. The city approved the acceptance at the Oct. 8 council meeting.
“Any money we can capture from grants will help keep funds higher in the city’s budget,” said Ashworth. “We look for grants to fund big ticket items.”
The program is designed for departments to pick a project, like equipment, to replace.
The Assistance to Firefighters Program’s goal is to add to the safety of the public and firefighters to any fire-related hazards. They help provide direct financial assistance to any eligible department across the U.S.
This funding is for critically needed resources to equip and train emergency personnel to recognized standards, enhance operations efficiencies, foster interoperability, and support community resilience, according to FEMA's website.
Self-contained breathing apparatus are devices worn by firefighters to provide breathable air while in a fire or hazardous situation.
Visit the city's website for more information on bidding requirements or contact Ashworth at 937-233-1564 for more information.
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