Clermont Firefighters to Staff New Wellness Way Station with Federal Grant

Clermont is set to bolster its emergency services with a new fire station in the burgeoning Wellness Way region, thanks to a substantial federal grant.

 

The Clermont City Council recently approved a $3.5 million federal grant aimed at funding 15 new firefighter positions for the upcoming station.

 

This initiative addresses the escalating demand in an area that has transformed from vast orange groves into a thriving residential hub.

 

Resident Daniel McGraw, who relocated to Wellness Way from New Jersey, remarked, "I love it here; it's beautiful. There's all these new complexes; it's like a town itself in this area."

 

Currently, the region encompasses approximately 6,000 residential units, with an additional 15,000 planned.

 

However, emergency response times have been a concern, averaging 11 to 12 minutes in Wellness Way, compared to four to six minutes elsewhere in the city.

 

Clermont Fire Chief David Ezell emphasized the importance of reducing these times, noting that after four minutes, the chances of reviving a heart attack victim diminish significantly.

 

To expedite the process, the department plans to establish a temporary facility by May or June next year, with a permanent station groundbreaking slated for October.

 

The federal grant will cover 75% of salary costs for the first two years and 35% in the third year, providing the city time to develop a sustainable revenue base for ongoing expenses.

 

In addition to the fire station, Clermont is proactively addressing infrastructure needs.

 

The city has received a $500,000 grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to study alternative water supplies for Wellness Way and surrounding areas.

 

Furthermore, Clermont is seeking $1.5 million in state assistance to expand water and wastewater systems, including plans for a new water plant to serve the southern part of the city.

 

These initiatives underscore Clermont's commitment to supporting its growing population and ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.