Text of Senator Charles Schumer's Letter to Mr. Michael Brown, Deputy Director Federal Emergency Management Agency
Dear Mr. Brown:
I am pleased to write in support of the Wellsville Fire Department's application for funding under the 2003 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. Such funding will enable the Department to correct deficiencies in current communications systems and equipment.
Located in Allegany County, New York, the Wellsville Fire Department provides fire protection and emergency services to the Town and Village of Wellsville, an area covering approximately 45 square miles. Within the district, there exists a diverse group business, educational and housing facilities, including a candle factory, college campus, elementary and post-secondary institutions, two nursing homes, senior housing, and resident complex for mentally disabled individuals. In addition to protecting residents and business within the Town and Village of Wellsville, the Wellsville Fire Department provides mutual aid to adjacent, towns and villages, as well as nearby Potter County, Pennsylvania.
With funding, the Wellsville Fire Department will update their low band communication equipment that currently prohibits emergency personnel from directly communicating with law enforcement, ambulance and rescue officials following initial dispatch. As participants in the Wellsville Area Emergency Services Organization, a group that has vast experience in all disciplines of emergency response, the Wellsville Fire Department recently applied for and received high band frequencies. However, additional equipment is needed to effectively serve the Wellsville community. If awarded the $235,532.56 being sought under the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, the Wellsville Fire Department will purchase mobile watt radios, portable radios, a duty repeater and base, chargers, and mounted communications kits. I applaud the Wellsville Fire Department in their foresight and hope their application for funding meets with your approval.
Thank you for your consideration. Please do not hesitate to contact my office for additional information.
Sincerely,
Charles E. Schumer
U.S. Senator