Submitted By
Fire Chief Tom Ebsen
Reviewed By
LKS
Agenda Item Title
Title
A Resolution Authorizing the Submission of an Application with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for a Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant for Three New Firefighters/Paramedics
End
Overview
Overview
Staffing For Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants are available from the Federal government (FEMA). The intent of the grants is to assist municipalities facing challenges of increasing emergency services demands. If awarded, the grant is provides three years of federally-subsidized funds for new firefighters of 75% in year one, 75% in year two, and 35% in year three of the salaries.
Body
Staff Recommendation
Approval.
Fiscal Impact
If awarded, the General Fund budget for fiscal years 2018, 2019 and 2020 would include a total of $524,114 in grant funds to offset salary and benefit costs to hire three additional Firefighter/Paramedics and the Village would need to appropriate local matching funds of $346,241 over the three fiscal years. During the grant period no alterations to staffing is allowed, but after the period ends there are no staffing obligations.
Background
The Fire Department responds to a wide variety of emergencies, including emergency medical services (EMS) which in 2016 accounted for 63% of the total calls for service. EMS demands are up from 58% of total in 2010, and each year has shown incremental demand. The Department currently runs two ambulances which are now averaging 12 calls per day. In 2016, it is also noted that on average, eleven times per month, emergency medical service was provided by an out-of-town ambulance because Oak Park's two ambulances were committed to another response during the eleven times. Causal factors for the increases include an aging demographic of the "boomer" generation, and the fact that Oak Park has an extensive offering of senior housing options, including three a...
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