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Bolton commissioners discuss SAFER grant, differ on timing for new positions
Summary
Commissioners debated whether to pursue positions through a SAFER grant before the March 17 deadline; some urged immediate hiring while others urged more research and a master plan. No vote was taken.
Bolton Fire Commission members debated whether to seek federal staffing through a Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant and when to create any new positions. The discussion took place under New Business during the Feb. 27 meeting and ended without a formal motion.
James Rupert, presenting the Fire Marshal's report to the commission, said he had presented the possibility of SAFER-funded positions to the Board of Selectmen's Personnel Sub‑Committee and wants to identify the department's specific needs and develop a master plan before pursuing an application. According to the meeting record, Rupert said he prefers more research on the specifics of staffing needs.
Commissioners Danny Moquin and Robert Langton pushed for more immediate action, saying the positions represent a current need that should be addressed now rather than later. The record shows the commission noted the SAFER grant application deadline of March 17, 2023, but took no formal vote or direction to submit an application at this meeting.
The commission did not set a deadline for internal planning; members will revisit the topic at a future meeting. The matter remains under discussion and will require coordination with the Board of Selectmen if an application moves forward.
