Rhea County Fire Department seeking grants for gear

Friday, January 1, 1904

photo Gary Louallen

DAYTON, Tenn. - The Rhea County Fire Department is asking the County Commission for permission to apply for grants totaling almost $790,000 for a truck and equipment for firefighters.

Fire Chief Jackie Reavley presented the requests to the commission this week during a workshop. He said that, if both applications are successful, the county would be responsible for a 5 percent match, or $29,400.

With the money, Reavley said all county volunteer firefighters will have the most up-to-date equipment and will meet all safety requirements. The department also would secure a new tanker truck, he said

In other matters, commissioners were asked to consider supporting a Bassmaster Elite Series fishing tournament in May 2013. Dayton Councilman Gary Louallen, who recently has spearheaded efforts to secure a number of fishing tournaments, called the Bassmaster series "the biggest and best" of fishing tournaments.

Louallen asked the county to provide half the $60,000 cost of the tournament and said he would ask Dayton City Council to foot the other half. He said the event was estimated to generate more than $1 million in the local economy.

Commissioners agreed to consider the request at their meeting Tuesday.