Westminster, MD, Tuesday, September 6, 2022 – The Carroll County Board of Commissioners is pleased to announce that its FY2021 “Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program” application has been approved.  The AFG Program, first established in 2001, is managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) with the primary goal of meeting the firefighting and emergency response needs of fire departments and non-affiliated emergency medical service organizations.

Carroll County’s application proposes to purchase state-of-the-art mobile and portable radios for use by the county’s Fire and Emergency Medical Services, with all 14 county volunteer fire companies benefiting from this award.  The total cost of the proposed radio purchase is estimated to be $876,950.  The award requires a local match, which will result in the county receiving $797,227 in grant funds and providing the remaining $79,723.

“State-of-the-art equipment is critical in protecting the public and our emergency personnel,” said Director Michael Robinson of Carroll County Fire & EMS.  “The radios to be purchased with this grant funding will result in improved and more reliable communication, which in turn results in better protection of and service to our communities.”

“Public safety has always been, and remains, a top priority of the Board” said Commissioner Stephen Wantz, District 1. “We greatly appreciate receiving this FEMA AFG funding as it will enhance our efforts to afford state-of-the-art communications capabilities in support of our Fire and Emergency Medical Services providers.”

“Our firefighters put themselves at risk to protect us in emergencies and times of crisis, and it’s our responsibility to ensure we meet their needs. That’s why I’m proud to deliver this federal investment to Carroll County Fire and EMS to help them keep our communities safe,” said Senator Van Hollen. “I’m grateful for the sacrifices of all of Maryland’s first responders and will continue working to support their important mission.”