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Stevensville OKs contract with grant writer to pursue FEMA turnout-gear grant; vote 2–1
Summary
The council approved a $3,300 contract with Grant Masters Inc. for a FEMA assistance‑to‑firefighters application to replace turnout/bunker gear (estimated request $151,200; 5% local match ≈ $7,500). The vote passed 2–1; council discussed budget timing and fundraising plans.
The Stevensville Town Council on June 11 authorized a contract with Grant Masters Inc. to prepare a federal firefighters‑assistance grant application seeking replacement turnout gear for the town’s volunteer company.
Fire Department leaders told the council their gear is beyond the recommended 10‑year service life and they intend to request about $151,200 for new gear to outfit up to 28 members; that figure would carry a roughly 5 percent local match (about $7,500) if awarded. The contract with Grant Masters to write the application and supporting narrative is $3,300.
The chief summarized the timing: the federal application window closes later in the month, so staff asked the council to authorize the mayor to sign the writing‑services agreement now so the application can be submitted. The department said it will pursue fundraising and an additional small relief grant to cover the $3,300 writer fee if possible; the town would only incur the larger match cost if it chooses to accept an award when it is offered.
Councilors pressed on budget implications and on whether the department had a track record with Grant Masters. The chief and other speakers said the town used Grant Masters successfully on a prior radio grant and that the firm already had much of the department’s background information, shortening the turnaround time.
After discussion the council approved the agreement by roll call, 2–1 (Council member Smith opposed). The chief said the department will continue its fundraising and return for approval of any award that requires a town match.
