Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia awarded $1.6 million to strengthen several Florida fire departments.
The Florida CFO said that the funding awarded provides firefighters and their departments with essential equipment to protect firefighters from dangerous chemicals and enhances their emergency response capabilities.
Awards made through Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Grant:
- City of Cape Coral – $25,296
- Sanibel Fire and Rescue – $32,171.36
Awards made through Firefighter Assistance Grant:
- Hendry County – $30,435
Awards funded in the FY 2025-2026 Budget:
- City of Naples Fire Rescue High Water Engine – $400,000
- Charlotte County Fire and EMS Services High Water Rescue Vehicles – $825,000
- Lee County South Trail Fire District High Water Rescue Vehicle – $370,000
“Over the years, the profession of being a firefighter has evolved and there are more dangers facing our firefighters than ever before,” Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia said. “This is why it is crucial that Florida’s emergency responders are equipped with the resources they need to continue to save lives. I am proud that as Florida’s State Fire Marshal, I am able to travel the state to meet with our firefighters and find more ways to support them as they serve our communities.”
“Thank you, CFO Ingoglia, for consistently showing up for our first responders and making sure that their health and safety is a top priority,” said Michael Choate, Immediate Past President of Florida Fire Chiefs Association. “These funds will go a long way in ensuring the future success of these fire departments and the firefighters that work in these communities.”
Funding is awarded through grant programs from the Department of Financial Services and money that was allocated in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-2026 budget. The Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Grant provides financial assistance to obtain equipment and training designed to mitigate exposure to cancer-causing chemicals. The Firefighter Assistance Grant offers financial support designed to improve emergency response capabilities.
Florida Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Blaise Ingoglia serves as the state’s top financial watchdog, a member of the Florida Cabinet, and the head of the Florida Department of Financial Services.
