HARRISBURG–The Commonwealth Financing Authority has awarded the Borough of Waynesboro $750,000 in grant funding through the Statewide Local Share Account program for the purchase a new fire apparatus for the Waynesboro Fire Department.
“Local fire departments continually struggle with funding, necessitating grants for capital improvements projects such as a new fire apparatus. The Department has experienced a surge in call frequency, which places further strain on its vehicles, and its budget,” said Christopher Devers, Waynesboro Fire Department Chief.
The Waynesboro Fire Department’s first due area is 34.78 square miles. Its current fire apparatus has exceeded its useful life, and there is no surplus funding for necessary vehicle replacements. The purchase of a new apparatus will immediately improve the overall service and response efforts of the Department, positively impacting the safety and welfare of both the first responders and community members served.
“Being the first year of the Statewide LSA program, it was very competitive. We’re grateful to Representative Paul Schemel and Senator Doug Mastriano for their support of the project and recognizing the Department’s need for a new and reliable fire apparatus,” stated Jason Stains, Borough Manager.
“This funding is vital to ensuring the necessary purchase of a new fire apparatus, while minimizing the local tax burden. The men and women of the Waynesboro Fire Department work tirelessly to serve the public and keep us safe, and this new apparatus will allow their work to continue to be carried out in an efficient and safe manner. I have been advocating for this funding for a long time and am looking forward to seeing the completed project,” stated Rep. Paul Schemel.
The funding for a new fire apparatus will complement the Borough’s current plans of constructing an emergency services complex across from the Waynesboro WellSpan Hospital, which is aimed at providing a one-stop campus for police, fire, and additional health services in the downtown area.
The Statewide LSA program was created last year and was established for the purpose of distributing a portion of gaming local share assessments to support projects that improve the quality of life of citizens in the community.
