For Immediate Release
July 18, 2002
Contact: Rusty Cheuvront or Terry Sebastian (cell: 502-682-9405) at (502) 564-2611 

Patton announces federal funds for local fire departments

FRANKFORT, KY - Governor Paul Patton, along with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), today announced that four Kentucky fire departments will receive “Assistance to Firefighters” grants for projects that total more than $700,000.  

“I am very pleased that FEMA approved the departments’ grant applications for assistance under this program, which will allow each department to expand its equipment, training and services,” Patton said. “Firefighters play an invaluable role in the safety of our communities, and this grant money will allow them to continue their projects and enforcement.”  

The counties include:

The fire departments are required to work with FEMA to ensure that they are able to meet the terms of the grant agreement. The departments must share in the cost of the funded project. Departments that serve jurisdictions of 50,000 or fewer residents are required to provide a non-Federal cost-share of 10 percent. Departments that service jurisdictions of over 50,000 provide a 30-percent cost-share. The match must be in cash without the use of in-kind contributions.  

The grant program allows fire departments to apply for eligible activities in one of four different programs:

· Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety (eligible activities include: Training, Wellness and Fitness, Firefighting  Equipment, and Personal Protective Equipment).

· Fire Prevention (eligible activities include: Public Education, Public Awareness, Code Enforcement, and Arson Prevention).

· Emergency Medical Services (eligible activities include: Training and Equipment).

· Firefighting Vehicles.

The maximum amount an applicant can be awarded is $750,000 during any fiscal year. As part of the application, applicants have to demonstrate financial need and articulate the benefits to be derived from the grant funds.  

- 30 -