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Hainesport approves application for grant to study shared daytime fire-duty crew with Lumberton
Summary
The committee unanimously authorized submitting a DCA grant application (up to $100,000) with Lumberton to study a shared daytime paid fire-duty crew; the grant requires a 25% local cost share (up to $25,000) and has a May 1 submission deadline and rapid award timeline.
Hainesport Township voted to authorize a grant application with Lumberton Township to study a shared, year‑round weekday daytime paid fire-duty crew, part of a state Local Government Services Management Enhancement Review Program administered by the Department of Community Affairs (DCA).
Paula Huelan outlined the request: the study grant can provide up to $100,000 to cover investigative costs; the town would be responsible for a 25% cost share (approximately $25,000) if awarded. The grant submission deadline is May 1; award notices are expected as early as June 1.
"This is the first step of many," Huelan said, stressing that the study would evaluate operational viability and potential savings but would not obligate the township to implement shared services. Committee members approved adding the resolution to the agenda and then unanimously adopted Resolution 2026-83-4 authorizing the application.
During public comment, resident Zachary Hester asked why the deadline and timeline were so compressed given the mid‑April meeting date. Officials responded that the state often issues late grant notifications and that the study simply creates a factual basis for any future decisions.
The committee directed administration to prepare the application and pursue grant-writing assistance as needed. If the grant is awarded, the administration will report findings and any recommended next steps to the governing body before further commitments are made.
