July 25, 2025

62nd District Fire Departments Awarded Volunteer Fire Capacity Grants

This article was archived from the previous WordPress site. Formatting and media should be close, but may not match the original post perfectly.

BARKHAMSTED – Two local volunteer fire departments have been awarded 2024 Volunteer Fire Capacity (VFC) Grants, provided through a partnership between the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Division of Forestry and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service, according to State Rep. Mark Anderson (R-GRANBY).

These competitive, matching federal grants are designed to support rural fire departments by enhancing their capacity to safely and effectively respond to emergency incidents through the acquisition of vital equipment and resources.

The following departments have received grant awards:

Pleasant Valley Volunteer Fire Company (Barkhamsted) – The department will utilize the grant to purchase a gated wye, portable hydrant, and various adapters and fittings to improve access to and management of water supply during firefighting operations.
Barkhamsted East Volunteer Fire Company No. 1, Inc. – Funding will support the acquisition of new turnout gear, ensuring firefighters have the proper personal protective equipment to operate safely in hazardous conditions.

“These grant awards reflect the critical importance of investing in our local emergency services,” said Anderson. “We commend both Pleasant Valley and Barkhamsted East Volunteer Fire Companies for their continued commitment to public safety and emergency preparedness.”

The Volunteer Fire Capacity Grant Program focuses on assisting fire departments serving communities with populations under 10,000. Funding is awarded on a competitive basis to support projects that enhance firefighter safety, increase operational efficiency, and build local capacity for emergency response.

The 62nd District expresses its deep appreciation to all volunteer firefighters who serve tirelessly to protect our residents, property, and natural resources. These grants provide essential tools to help them continue their mission effectively and safely.

###

A Perfect Voting Record in 2025 – Standing Up for the 62nd District

To the 62nd District, I’m proud to share that I achieved a perfect voting record during the 2025 legislative session. As your representative in Hartford, I believe it’s my duty to be present and engaged on every vote that impacts our communities. Each bill that comes before the House is an opportunity to ensure that […]

September 12, 2025

Good principles lead to good gun policy

The June Drummer ran an opinion piece by Michael Fitzgerald questioning my legislative agenda, specifically HB 5717. Fitzgerald cited the Sandy Hook tragedy that led to Connecticut’s restrictive gun laws, and the recent Granby budget that funds a School Resource Officer (SRO). Of course, that a human being reached such a mental state that he murdered 20 […]

September 3, 2025