February 10, 2026 - Dickson City, PA
Governor Josh Shapiro and Pennsylvania State Fire Commissioner Thomas Cook visited the Dickson City Fire Department, also known as the Eagle Hose Company No. 1, to thank first responders for their heroic efforts to respond to the Lehigh Valley Hospital fire last week and to highlight how the Governor's 2026-27 proposed budget continues to deliver for firefighters and first responders.Pennsylvania's career and volunteer firefighters put themselves in harm's way to protect communities across the Commonwealth, and Governor Shapiro has been a strong advocate for increasing state support for fire departments. That's why, for the second year in a row, the Governor's 2026-27 proposed budget includes a new $30 million investment - nearly doubling annual funding for fire departments - in competitive grants.These grants will provide critical financial support to both volunteer and career fire departments statewide by funding major equipment purchases, training, facility improvements, debt reduction, and other essential operational expenses - ensuring Pennsylvanians in every community are protected."Every single day, firefighters across Pennsylvania run towards danger to keep people safe from harm. We owe it to these Pennsylvania heroes to have their backs and stand by them," said Governor Shapiro. "While the Commonwealth already provides funding for fire companies, the current system doesn't allow departments to make major investments - these competitive grants would change that. Public safety is at the heart of our work as elected leaders, and when our communities are safe, we build a strong foundation for growth across Pennsylvania."Speaker List:Governor Josh ShapiroCommissioner Thomas Cook, PA Office of the State Fire CommissionerChief Richard Chowanec, Fire Chief, Dickson City Fire DepartmentMayor Robert MacCallum, Dickson CitySenator Marty Flynn, PA's 22nd Senatorial DistrictRepresentative Bridget M. Kosierowski, PA's 114th House District
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