Berkeley County commissioners on Tuesday voted unanimously to accept a federal SAFER (Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response) grant that will fund the hiring of 12 new firefighters.

Elizabeth Lapcheck, branch administrator, told the commission the total award is $3,009,288, with a federal share of $1,855,724 and a required local match of $1,153,564 over three years. "The total award was 3,009,288 with the federal share being 1,855,724, and then the required match is $1,153,564 over 3 years," Lapcheck said.

The grant was presented to the commission after the county sought permission earlier this year to apply. Commissioners and county staff praised the coordinated effort to win the award, noting county leadership, the fire department and the International Association of Firefighters all contributed to the application and review process. Chief Roberts of the fire department joined staff comments celebrating the award as a means to improve both public safety and firefighter safety and efficiency.

A motion to accept the grant was made and seconded; the commission voted "aye" and approved acceptance of the award. Commissioners emphasized that preserving the integrity of grant requirements will be important to maintain eligibility for future federal funds.

The grant acceptance authorizes county staff to proceed with the administrative steps required to receive the funds and implement the hiring plan. Commissioners did not provide a detailed hiring schedule during the public portion of the meeting; implementation details and hiring timelines were described as part of ongoing departmental planning and will be handled by county staff.