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Submittal of Application to Department of Homeland Security for FY 2023-24 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant Program for Hernando County Fire and Emergency Services
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BRIEF OVERVIEW
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) helps to strengthen community fire prevention programs and to support scientific research on innovations that improve firefighter safety, health, and well-being.
The Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant was established to provide funding directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations to help them increase or maintain the number of trained, front line, firefighters available in their communities.
The application periods opened March 11, 2024, and close on April 12, 2024. To meet approval processes, we are requesting Board approval to apply. The department will follow the grant policy for review and approval of County grant personnel.
Hernando County Fire Rescue has trained technical rescue personnel; however, they are housed among all fourteen stations and must leave those locations and come together at the heavy rescue truck location before tending to the emergency at hand. HCFR is seeking the SAFER funds to hire 12 personnel, consisting of 3 captains, 3 driver/engineers, and 6 firefighter/paramedics, to staff our existing heavy rescue truck, serving as a dedicated technical rescue team.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
A budget resolution will be presented to the Board at the time of the grants award.
No match is required for the SAFER grant.
LEGAL NOTE
The Board is authorized to act on this matter pursuant to Chapter 125, Florida Statutes.
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended the Board designate Fire Chief Paul Hasenmeier as the authorized official to apply electronically per FEMA’s Grant policies for the SAFER Grant FY 2023 - 2024.