Mt. Prospect, Huntley receive federal grants to hire firefighters

The Mount Prospect and Huntley fire departments received $3.1 million in federal grants to help hire additional firefighters, officials announced Wednesday.

If accepted, the Mount Prospect Fire Department would receive $1.39 million from the Department of Homeland Security to hire six new firefighters.

"This would allow us to put downtown engine 13 back in service," Fire Chief John Malcolm said.

The Huntley Fire Protection District was awarded $1.51 million for recruitment and staffing.

The grants were awarded through the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response program that helps communities have the resources to protect residents from fire and fire-related hazards.

Malcolm said that while the fire department was awarded the grant, it's up to the village board to approve it.

The $1.39 million would cover the salary and benefits of the six new firefighters for two years. After the grant runs out, the village would be expected to pay for the firefighters' salary and benefits.

Village Manager Dave Strahl said the board will "evaluate the grant money and see how it integrates with the village's budget."