STAFF REPORT

STAFF REPORT

YOUNGSTOWN — Eleven fire departments in Ohio, including McDonald and Western Reserve Joint Fire District, will receive nearly $1.7 million from the Department of Homeland Security through the Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program.

“Our firefighters need the proper resources to protect their communities,” Sen. George V. Voinovich, R-Ohio, said in announcing the grants. “These funds will help Ohio’s first responders carry out their vital missions.”

Two area departments were selected. The McDonald Volunteer Fire Department in Trumbull County will receive $51,224 and the Western Reserve Joint Fire District in Mahoning County will receive $42,398.

“We are very pleased to receive the money through the federal grant,” said Chief David Comstock of Western Reserve. “The money will enable the fire district to continue its effort to upgrade our older equipment while saving taxpayers funds.”

Comstock said the grant money would be used to replace an outdated air compressor, which is used to refill the tanks the firefighters use on their backs. The rest of the money will be used toward buying a hose tester.

“We’ve been fortunate and have received money from multiple grants since 2002,” Comstock said. He added the money has gone toward training as well as other equipment.

Representatives from the McDonald Volunteer Fire Department could not be reached to comment.