MOSINEE, WI (WSAU) — 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.
Grahn says he hasn’t had a chance to read the fine print on the grant funding just yet so he doesn’t know how they will be able to use the funds for recruitment and retention but ideally he would like to offer some sign-on bonuses or provide a bonus to current employees.
During a tour of the station, Evers said it is important to recognize the work these departments are doing.
“[For some,] this is their job but the rest are volunteers. That’s great, we support those volunteers and we want to make sure they have the resources [they need,]” said Evers. “When you see the work that they are doing, it’s amazing. It’s a real life saver.”
Evers also made stops in Chippewa Falls and Hortonville as part of the tour.
