East Central Reporter

Adam Niemerg, the state representative for Illinois House District 102, announced that several fire protection departments in his district have been awarded more than $50,000 in grants to purchase new equipment. He made this announcement in a Facebook post on April 2.

"Congratulations to our local Fire Protection Districts in Homer, Greenup, and Paris for their successful 2024 Small Equipment Grant Awards," said Niemerg, according to Facebook. "With over $54,000 between these three districts, they will be able to purchase specialized gear washers, gear dryer, and emergency phone equipment."

In Champaign County, the Homer Fire Protection District was awarded $7,200; in Cumberland County, the Greenup Fire Protection District received $21,210; and in Edgar County, the Paris Community Fire Protection District was granted $26,000. The Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) announced these grants in March as part of its 2024 Small Equipment Grant Program.

Screenshot of State Representative Adam Niemerg's April 2 Facebook post | State Representative Adam Niemerg's Facebook page.

According to a press release from the fire marshal’s office, a total of 178 fire departments and districts received grants in 2024. Of the 347 applications submitted, approximately $7.7 million was requested in funding. "Grant programs like our Small Equipment Grant Program are critical in providing fire departments and ambulance providers with the necessary equipment to ensure their staff can perform their duties safely and efficiently," said James A Rivera, Illinois State Fire Marshal. Rivera added that these grants alleviate financial burdens, allowing departments to acquire essential tools without delay.

To apply for the Small Equipment Grant program, fire departments and fire protection districts must have participated in the National Fire Incident Reporting System for at least two years, from October 2022 through September 2024. Applications were reviewed for eligibility and scored based on equipment need and financial need. Priority items considered during evaluation included personal infection control equipment, vehicle rescue tools, self-contained breathing apparatuses, firefighter safety gear, and emergency response equipment.

Niemerg is a representative for the 109th District and has been active in the Illinois General Assembly since 2021. He is a native of Teutopolis and earned a bachelor’s degree from Eastern Illinois University after attending Lake Land College. Professionally, he has experience as a senior claims adjuster with Country Financial.