The *Naperville Daily Herald* recently published an article highlighting the Naperville Fire Department's receipt of a significant SAFER grant. The grant, worth over $1 million, is intended to cover salaries and benefits for the next two years, offering much-needed relief in a time when staffing remains a major challenge.
According to Chief Mark Puknaitis, the funding will likely allow the department to hire three firefighter/paramedics, helping to fill six open positions in the operations division and two administrative roles that have been vacant due to attrition. The SAFER program, which stands for "Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response," is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and aims to support fire departments in maintaining essential staffing levels.
Puknaitis emphasized the importance of the grant, noting that it’s not just about the money—it’s about ensuring the department can continue to serve the community effectively. The funds must be used exclusively for personnel and benefits, meaning they can’t be applied to equipment or building improvements. He also mentioned that the city has 185 operations staff working in three 24-hour shifts, and the new hires will be integrated into this structure.
The grant was secured through the efforts of local lawmakers, including U.S. Rep. Bill Foster and Sen. Dick Durbin, who helped secure the award for the city. Puknaitis explained that the department had applied for the funding last year, and with the current wave of retirements, the need for additional staff has never been more urgent.
He also noted that while the new hires may bring less experience than those leaving, the grant provides a critical opportunity to replenish the ranks. “It’s not just about adding people,†he said. “It’s about keeping our service strong and sustainable.â€
The city has 90 days from the date of receiving the grant to begin the hiring process, and the new positions must be maintained for the full two-year term. With only around 300 to 350 fire departments nationwide receiving SAFER grants out of nearly 2,500 applicants, Naperville’s win is a testament to the department’s commitment and the importance of its role in the community.
As one reader joked, “*Firefighting agency*? Are you kidding me?â€â€”but regardless of the wording, the impact of this grant on the Naperville Fire Department is very real and very welcome. Thanks to Dan and Chris for sharing the updates.
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