The Hamilton Fire Department has been awarded a $15,500 Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security and the Department of Fire Services (DFS). The grant, part of the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s commitment to supporting local fire departments, will fund essential safety equipment for Hamilton firefighters.
“Applying for state grants is an essential way to bring valuable resources into our community while reducing the financial burden on Hamilton taxpayers,” said Town Manager Joseph Domelowicz. “What makes our leadership team so effective is the experience and dedication of our employees, who actively seek out and apply for these opportunities. Their efforts ensure that a small community like ours can access the support we need without relying solely on local tax dollars.”
In a January 17, 2025 letter addressed to Hamilton Fire Chief Raymond Brunet, the administration underscored its dedication to enhancing public safety and ensuring that fire departments across the state are well-equipped to protect their communities. The state grant, with award totals that range from $5,000,000 to $50,000 based on a community’s population, were due to be awarded in mid-November for State Fiscal Year 2025, and will operate as a reimbursement program for the town.
In the award letter, Governor Maura Healey wrote about the administration’s broader efforts to work with municipalities to comply with the MBTA Communities Law, a vital initiative aimed at increasing housing affordability. “The recent Supreme Judicial Court ruling has granted all municipalities additional time to achieve compliance with the MBTA Communities Law. While compliance is not currently a factor in awarding fire safety grants, it will be considered for future discretionary grant programs, including subsequent rounds of fire safety funding.”
According to Boston news outlets, Hamilton is among roughly 30 communities that have not met the deadlines to comply with the MBTA Communities Act – A legislation that mandates towns located near MBTA-served areas, establish zoning districts that permit increased multi-family housing development. The grant award exemplifies the Healey administration’s goal of supporting first responders, while also noting an administrative mission to create more affordable housing in Massachusetts, the letter stated. In an interview on January 16, State Sen. Bruce Tarr emphasized that while he understands the administration’s intent to enforce the MBTA zoning law, public safety should not be compromised in the process.
The Hamilton Fire Department plans to use the funds to acquire new equipment that enhances firefighter safety and efficiency, ensuring continued high-quality service to the community. “Having modern, reliable equipment is absolutely critical when fighting fires and responding to emergencies, said Chief Brunet. It’s what allows us to do our jobs safely and effectively, protecting lives and property while ensuring the safety of our firefighters.” Brunet, who has been Hamilton’s Fire Chief for over five years, plans to use the state grant to purchase new fire-resistant uniforms for the department. “This grant will make a real difference for our firefighters and the community we serve.”
