Firefighters receive $3.6M for training, equipment

Chester County will get $3.6 million to help volunteer firefighters’ relief associations provide training and equipment that saves lives and protects communities across the state. The funding was part of $55.1 million released statewide, said state Auditor General Eugene DePasquale.

Delaware County will get $2.7 million and Montgomery County $5.7 million.

“This money is vital in helping volunteer firefighters who save lives and protect property,” DePasquale said. “These funds will benefit communities statewide by helping to purchase lifesaving equipment, fund critical training and provide insurance for thousands of volunteer firefighters and emergency service providers.”

As part of the 2018 allocation, 2,518 municipalities across the state received $55.1 million in fire relief association funding for distribution to the volunteer firefighters’ relief associations providing fire services to their communities.

The volunteer firefighters’ relief association funding comes from a 2 percent state tax on fire insurance premiums purchased by Pennsylvania residents from out-of-state casualty insurance companies.

Tredyffrin Township will receive the most funding, $360,290. Other municipalities receiving a huge boost from the grant are: West Whiteland, $168,141; West Goshen, $194,294; Uwchlan, $158,312; East Goshen Township, $137,448; Easttown Township, $129,729, and West Chester at $120, 574. Even Modena, the smallest borough in the county, will receive $2,335.

The Department of the Auditor General audits volunteer firefighters’ relief associations.

DePasquale said for the first time ever, all municipalities submitted their requests for VFRA funding on time.

“My office has been working to streamline the process for municipalities and that effort is paying off by making it easier for them submit requests for the funding they need to support volunteer firefighters.”

Municipalities and Volunteer Fire Relief Associations are audited to determine the appropriate use of funds and that information submitted is correct. Misuse of funds or submitting information resulting in an overpayment of state aid must be returned to the state. In some instances state aid may be withheld from municipalities not in compliance with actuarial requirements or audit findings.