Hinsdale Likely To Get County Cash For Fire Department

HINSDALE, IL – DuPage County is poised to give Hinsdale $55,000 to buy new turnout gear that ensures firefighters are equipped with the latest safety equipment, the village said Wednesday.

With the money, the fire department could immediately move forward with the critical purchase, rather than phase in the equipment over several years, the village said.

Village President Greg Hart, who took office last month, advocated directly for the money, leveraging his relationships on the County Board, where he once served, according to a village news release.

Hart secured support from board members Kari Galassi, Lucy Chang Evans, Brian Krajewski and Andrew Honig, the village said.

Turnout gear is the essential protective equipment worn by firefighters during emergency responses and includes a helmet, coat, pants, boots and gloves, among other things, the village said. They are designed to protect against extreme heat, flames, hazardous materials and other life-threatening conditions.

"We know how important it is for our first responders to have the right equipment," Galassi, who represents Hinsdale in District 3, said in the release. "When President Hart brought this need to our attention, we were happy to work together to make it happen. It's a perfect example of how different levels of government can collaborate to meet local needs."

On Tuesday, the Hinsdale Village Board is set to vote on accepting the county grant. DuPage County board members are expected to weigh in later this month.