RFD seeks grants for equipment, staffing
RUSSELLVILLE — Russellville Fire Department is pursuing federal grant money to replace aging equipment and restore staffing levels. In its regular meeting last week, the councilmembers authorized applications for an Assistance to Firefighters Grant and a Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant.
Councilmembers also approved an agreement with JMCM Consulting for preparing the grant applications.
Fire Chief Joe Mansell said the department has between $150,000 and $200,000 in equipment needs. He said the AFG application would allow the department to seek up to $150,000 for equipment purchases, including Lucas CPR devices, fire hoses and nozzles.
Mansell said the mechanical CPR devices help perform chest compressions during emergency medical calls. He said the department’s existing units have reached a point where they can no longer be upgraded.
He said some of the hose currently carried on fire trucks dates back to when he joined the department in 1992. The equipment grant requires a 5% funding match by the city.
Councilmembers also approved a SAFER grant application aimed at increasing staffing levels within the department. Mansell said the department has operated with two fewer firefighters than it previously had and is seeking funding for those two positions.
“This would kind of get us back up to where we once were,” he said of the grant.
Under the SAFER grant, the federal government would pay 75% of eligible personnel costs during the first two years and 35% during the third year.
Mansell said the grant cannot be used to replace employees who retire or resign. Instead, it is intended to increase staffing levels based on recommended firefighter staffing standards.
He said additional personnel could help reduce overtime and part-time labor costs while ensuring shifts remain adequately staffed.
Councilmembers also approved an agreement with JMCM Consulting, which assisted with preparation of the grant applications. Mansell said the city would not owe a fee if the grants were not awarded.
He also credited Justin Green and Chris Watkins for helping prepare much of the grant application work.
