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West Bend swears in seven new firefighters hired through federal SAFER grant
Summary
Seven new firefighters were introduced and sworn in during the May 5 meeting; city officials credited a federal SAFER grant with allowing the hires and said the additions will help staff equipment 24/7 and reduce the need to cross-staff vehicles.
West Bend officials introduced and swore in seven newly hired firefighters during the city meeting May 5, a cohort city leaders said was funded in part by a federal Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant.
Mayor Joel Ongert and Deputy Chief Bridal presented the new hires and invited family to front the room for photos before the oath. The recruits were identified as Trent Halverson, Devin Byrd, Christine Hallock, Brandon Rhodes, Andy David, Christopher Samblin and Paul Kavan. Speakers noted several recruits bring prior firefighting or EMT experience and varied backgrounds, including a U.S. Marine veteran and personnel with prior service at nearby departments.
City staff said the ability to hire the seven firefighters resulted from securing a federal SAFER grant to increase staffing. Officials said the new employees will have an immediate impact by reducing the need to cross-staff equipment and by enabling coverage of all apparatus 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The recruits were administered the oath by the city clerk and will begin a multi-week academy.
Speakers who introduced the recruits included Deputy Chief Bridal and a department representative who described the applicants' prior experience; John Shemitas and other members of the public also attended the recognition. City officials thanked families and noted the hires address a staffing priority for public-safety operations.
