January 16, 2008
The last 2 sets of turn out gear that have been ordered from Shipman’s, have not yet been received. Shipman’s has not been paid for these items either.
The grant period is over, and Captain Guasitni has written the close out report and Chief Pomfret has read and approved it.
The close out report has been submitted to the feds.
We have to maintain the grant documentation for a period of 3 yrs.
Unless the feds do not accept and approve the close out report, the board can remove this perpetual agenda item.
New Item:
2008 Grant application:
In the spring of 2008 we applied for a DHS grant in the amount of $47,700. This money would have been used to purchase an air compressor capable of filling SCBA bottles.
On December 13, 2008, I received an email from the feds rejecting our grant request.
Respectfully submitted
Robert Mann, Captain
Grantee: Western Coventry Fire District
Period Covered: From 12/07/2007 to 12/06/2008
The Western Coventry Fire District was awarded $64,375.00 (our share and Federal share). With these funds we were able to purchase 25 complete sets of turnout gear (including structural firefighter turnout coats/pants, boots, helmets, gloves, hoods, jumpsuits/coveralls, and flashlights).
Due to competitive bidding (a process dictated by our SOPs) we had excess funds, which were utilized by purchasing an additional two sets of turnout gear, 25 brush helmets and brush goggles.
Qualitative Accomplishments in regards to our 2007 FEMA Grant:
The purchase of firefighter turnout gear has outfitted 77% of our staff. Using grant funding to purchase these items has released the burden on our taxpayers to try and outfit our staff with the most current and compliant gear. We have now been able to remove from service gear that is no longer compliant with the current standards.
Having this new gear offers our staff top of the line gear to protect them and return them safely to their family following a call. It also allows us to be more prepared when responding to calls in our district and on mutual aid responses.
We are returning excess funds. The remaining funds are not necessary for the fulfillment of grant obligations. We understand that the excess funds will be de-obligated and unavailable for future expenses.