(Middletown, NY)- State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/C/I-Mt. Hope) announced today that the Florida Fire District has been awarded a $75,000 grant for blacktop paving at the fire house and the building of a mezzanine for additional storage. The grant was secured through the State and Municipal Facilities Program, funding for which was secured in the 2017-2018 State Budget.

The Florida Fire District is in need of additional space for the storage of fire equipment, breathing apparatus, fire hose, turnout gear, portable pumps, and a ready room for volunteers on duty. The grant will go towards building a mezzanine for the storage of those items as well as a rescue ATV. The grant will also pay for paving of the firehouse’s parking lot.

“Our local first responders deserve the best working conditions and these upgrades at the fire house will allow the men and women of the Florida Fire District to better serve the public,” said Senator Bonacic. “In addition these grants funds will save the Village residents money.”

Robert Schreibeis Sr., Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners for the Florida Fire District said, “I would like to thank Senator Bonacic for his continued support of the men and women of the Florida Fire District. This grant will allow our members to better serve the Village residents.”