Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Finance committee approves AFG application focused on equipment
Summary
The finance committee voted to forward a resolution authorizing the mayor to apply for FY2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant funding, with staff saying the city will target equipment purchases rather than hiring programs.
The Newark City Council finance committee voted to send a resolution to full council authorizing the mayor to prepare and submit applications to the Department of Homeland Security for FY2025 fire grant programs, the committee heard June 1.
Committee members were told the city will seek the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and will concentrate its application on equipment needs, not hiring or other grant options. Mr. Barker asked for clarification that the submission would be for AFG equipment only; staff confirmed the city will not apply under the hiring-focused SAFER stream for this application.
A motion to forward the resolution was moved and seconded and approved by the committee in a voice vote. The item will appear on the full council docket for final action.
Why it matters: AFG grants can offset the capital cost of fire equipment and related training; targeting equipment narrows the proposal and can affect eligibility and matching requirements. The committee was told matching for the award could be up to 90% in the grant example discussed, meaning the city would provide the remaining share if awarded.
Next steps: The resolution will be transmitted to the full Newark City Council for consideration and, if approved, staff will prepare and submit the federal grant application.
