Syracuse's Fire Chief is seeking a $125,000 grant to purchase new thermal imaging cameras that allow firefighters to see inside of structures, for a variety of reasons. Recently, firefighters had to enter a vacant, dilapidated house to confirm there was no one inside.
Michael Monds says the view from the cameras are essential.
"To allow our firefighters to search buildings for trapped occupants and to search for hidden fire when there’s no visibility from this grant."
The city fire department's current cameras are reaching the end of their useful life. Monds spoke to city lawmakers today during a Common Council Study Session. He says money for the replacement cameras was cut from the department's budget as part of the city's contingency plans. The grant has a 10 percent local matching funds component which could save the city thousands.
The Syracuse Police Department is also seeking money to prepare new officers with protecting dignitaries who visit Syracuse. Deputy Chief Joe Cecile says the security detail has become a function of the department.
"We didn’t necessarily ask for it but, it was thrown on our shoulders and we’ve taken it over, more and more, when mostly politicians come into the city and they come to the (police department) security while they’re here. We’ve had a big turnover with the officers that used to do that. So, we need more training for the officers who are still here, and a lot of our equipment is antiquated."
During the Common Council study session, there was some optimism that cities like Syracuse will also be eligible to receive grant money that aims to bring people together with the new Biden Administration in Washington.
