Title:
title
Request Board approval to submit a grant application to the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for the FY25 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant Program, requesting up to $4 Million for 12 Employees and authorize the County Manager or designee to execute all documents associated with the SAFER Grant application. Countywide (Matt Kinley, Fire Chief)
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Division:
division
Fire Department
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Authorized By:
Matt Kinley, Fire Chief
Contact/Phone Number:
Kellen Erlandson/407-665-5125
Background:
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has published the FY2026 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to apply for the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant Program. SAFER grants are intended to provide funding to assist fire departments in increasing or maintaining the number of trained firefighters to support communities in meeting industry standards, achieve 24-hour staffing, and ensure adequate protection from fire hazards while supporting the traditional mission of fire departments.
Grant funding will support firefighter staffing enhancements within the County Fire Department including recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and training of new firefighter personnel. The project is intended to improve emergency response capabilities, maintain safe staffing levels, reduce overtime demands, and enhance the County's ability to provide fire suppression, rescue, and emergency medical services to residents and visitors.
The SAFER program provides federal funding for eligible personnel-related costs in accordance with FEMA grant guidelines. An estimated 12 Employees will be hired utilizing grant funding if awarded. The required local cost share of 25% in year 1 and year 2 and 65% in year 3 will be funded through (11200-Fire Fund).
Requested Action:
Staff requests Board approval to submit a grant application to the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for the FY25 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant Program, requesting up to $4 Million for 12 Employees; and authorize the County Manager or designee to execute all documents associated with the SAFER Grant application.