Chandler Hosts Workshops for First Responders

LEXINGTON (August 24, 2012)—Congressman Chandler yesterday hosted two workshops for area law enforcement, fire service professionals, and other local officials. Chandler brought in experts from the U.S. Department of Justice and FEMA to discuss grant opportunities for communities throughout Central Kentucky.

“If we can all agree on anything, surely we can agree that the public safety should be a top priority at all levels of government,” said Chandler. “It’s no secret that federal money is scarce these days, but I thought it was a good idea to connect our local fire and police officials with the Justice Department and FEMA to learn how they can best position themselves to receive this funding.”

Representatives from fifteen counties participated in the training. Chandler spoke at both workshops, which took place in Lexington and Mt. Sterling.

The types of grants discussed have already benefitted Central Kentucky. Last month, Congressman Chandler and Mayor Jim Gray announced a SAFER grant that allows the Lexington Fire Department to hire 28 new firefighters, and the Lexington Police Department was awarded a COPS grant to hire 25 new police officers last September.

###