3 NY depts. receive federal funding

Over $400,000 was awarded through the Assistance for Firefighters Grant program

By Marcus Wolf
Watertown Daily Times

NORTH COUNTY, N.Y. — U.S. Sens. Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten E. Gillibrand announced on Wednesday that three fire departments in Jefferson, St. Lawrence and Franklin counties will receive federal funding for new equipment.

According to the release, $416,880 in grants were awarded through Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program for the city of Watertown Fire Department; the DeKalb Junction Volunteer Fire Department, St. Lawrence County; and the Brushton Volunteer Fire Department Inc., Franklin County.

“This vital funding will provide our firefighters in the North Country with the equipment and training necessary to do their job safely and effectively,” Sen. Schumer said.

The Watertown department will receive $297,615 to upgrade its air packs and related training equipment.

“This funding will allow our fire department to safely serve residents with the most up to date equipment possible without costing local tax payers,” said city Fire Chief Dale C. Herman in the statement.

The DeKalb Junction Volunteer Fire Department will receive $21,905 for hoses and the Brushton Volunteer Fire Department will receive $97,360 for 12 self-contained breathing apparatus air packs and seven sets of turnout gear.

“We are thankful to be awarded this grant award which will allow us to upkeep our fire department,” said Naomi Drake, vice president of the DeKalb Junction Volunteer Fire Department in the release.