CFO Blaise Ingoglia awards funds to High Springs and Newberry Fire Departments
Press release from Florida CFO Blaise Ingoglia
OCALA, Fla. – Yesterday, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Blaise Ingoglia awarded over $500,000 to three Florida fire departments. Funding awarded by the CFO is to support equipment, training, and resources that help protect Florida’s firefighters and support public safety.
Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia said, “We must be proactive instead of reactive when it comes to firefighter health and safety. Nowadays, our firefighters are answering 911 phone calls more than ever before. By making sure firefighters have the essential protective gear and equipment to respond to emergencies, we are reducing exposure to harmful and dangerous chemicals that have a significant impact on a firefighter’s health.”
Ocala Fire Chief Clint Welborn said, “Our local heroes are responding to calls every day with tremendous bravery. I want to thank CFO Ingoglia for the recognition of the work that we do and the unwavering dedication to our firefighters.”
High Springs Fire Chief Joseph Peters said, “Thank you, CFO Ingoglia, for your leadership and for supporting our firefighters’ health. Our firefighters face daily and long-term risks every day to serve those in our communities.”
Newberry Fire Chief Jason Lyman said, “Through this funding, we are able to save lives and property faster by strengthening our emergency response capabilities. I want to thank CFO Ingoglia for standing alongside Florida’s firefighters and ensuring we have the necessary tools to do our job safely.”
Funding is allocated through the Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Grant and in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-2026 budget to support firefighter safety through the necessary training and resources. The Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Grant provides the equipment, supplies, and education to mitigate exposure to hazardous chemicals.
Awards made through the Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Grant
- City of Ocala – $6,372.75
- City of High Springs – $4,793.44
Awards funded in FY 2025-2026 Budget
- Newberry Regional First Responder Training Facility – $500,000