The East Contra Costa Fire Protection District has been awarded a one-time emergency $7.8 million dollar Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) this week to help them address the significant impacts that the loss of fire stations and firefighters has had on these communities. Since the failure of Measure S, response times have increased beyond safe levels and there are less firefighters available to respond to emergencies. United Professional Firefighters on Contra Costa County, Local 1230, looks forward to working with the Fire District to restore service and bring back much needed firefighters.
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has worked closely with President Obama’s administration to continue the SAFER grant funding program and assist struggling agencies in maintaining adequate public safety. The East Contra Costa Fire District’s current level of service was one of many factors that helped them secure this one-time, emergency funding. This grant is only good for two years and comes with several requirements that must be met and maintained by the District. This short-term revenue source will allow two more years to address funding issues that have plagued the District since it was created in 2002.
The firefighters of Local 1230 are thankful to FEMA for this grant and to the District its work to receive it. We look forward to the process of restoring much needed service to the community, and continuing to work toward long-term financial solutions.
