Governor Tony Evers toured the state on Tuesday announcing nearly $32 million in grant funding to over 440 EMS districts to help with staffing and equipment needs.
Interim Fire Chief Adam Grahn says he plans to split the funds up between purchasing some new equipment and offering incentives to new hires and current staffers, both areas where the department could use some help.
“We are always asking for more, more, more; but I understand there is only so much to give,” said Grahn. “But this is a big help, kind of meeting in the middle. [We can] maybe get some raises, get some new equipment in here.” Specifically, Grahn is hoping to purchase a second automatic CPR device for the ambulance crews and another in-vehicle computer to help with reports. The department currently has one of each that’s shared between their two vehicles.