Excerpts from the NWITimes.com:
The Gary Fire Department is set for a major upgrade in the coming year, with millions of dollars in planned improvements. Recently, they acquired new ambulances, and officials are hopeful that several new fire engines and an aerial ladder will be added to their fleet over the next 12 months, according to Fire Chief Paul Bradley.
A significant financial boost came in the form of a $758,044 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant program. This funding will be used to purchase 133 self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units, essential for protecting firefighters during hazardous incidents.
Besides this, the department is actively pursuing another grant to purchase a new ladder truck, which could cost between $700,000 and $1 million. Currently, the department has three operational trucks, with one undergoing maintenance. The need for updated equipment is clear, as the existing fleet has been under strain for years.
Historically, the fire department has faced challenges with both staffing and equipment shortages. However, recent efforts have shown signs of progress. Some community observers believe the situation is gradually improving, thanks to increased funding and better management strategies.
In December 2010, under former Mayor Rudy Clay, 35 firefighter positions were cut, reducing the department’s workforce from 236 to 201. In 2014 and again early last year, firefighters joined police officers in protests over poor pay and outdated equipment, which led many to seek jobs elsewhere where compensation was better.
Today, the department employs 187 firefighters, and recent salary increases have been approved. Adam Friday, vice president of the Gary Firefighters Association Local 359, believes the changes are having a positive impact. He noted that salaries are expected to rise by up to $10,000 annually, and equipment has seen considerable improvements over the past few years.
Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson acknowledged the challenges her administration inherited, including serious gaps in equipment and low wages. “They were grossly underpaid,†she said. “Every year, we’ve worked closely with the chiefs to find more funding, and they’ve also taken initiative in securing resources themselves.â€
One example of this progress is a new company that has improved the collection of ambulance service fees. The additional revenue is being reinvested into acquiring new ambulances, helping modernize the department's emergency response capabilities.
Despite these gains, some issues remain. One key concern is the need for a permanent home for Station 5 firefighters, who have been operating out of temporary facilities for years. Fire Chief Bradley confirmed that federal funding has been approved for a new station on Pennsylvania Street, and he hopes to break ground this year. He also mentioned that station furnishings have been upgraded to improve working conditions.
Another ongoing challenge involves obtaining more personal protective equipment (PPE) and additional personnel to clean and maintain it. This is especially important for protecting firefighters from dangerous chemicals encountered during emergencies.
Mayor Freeman-Wilson is also collaborating with department leaders, union representatives, and city council members to create dual-role public safety positions that combine elements of both policing and firefighting. These roles would offer higher pay and the opportunity to develop new skills. While the decision to apply for these positions will be voluntary, some firefighters have already shown interest.
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