Hamlin Fire Department receives state grant

For the past 40 years, the fire department has used a pavilion-style building to host their annual carnival, which serves as their biggest fundraiser of the year. Additionally, the grounds play host to the state's fourth-largest dog show once a year, accommodating up to 60 campers on 22 acres of land, according to a press release from Nesbitt's office.

The new facility will be completely enclosed with upgraded electrical and restroom facilities, an expanded parking lot and new sidewalks. Once completed, the department will be able to accommodate 200 campers at one time and will have handicapped accessible restrooms fully compliable with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Additionally, the department will be able to work more closely with the town in hosting more events on the property.

Also present at the event were representatives from the United States Department of Agriculture, which also secured funding for the building and Hamlin Fire Department president Michael Gross, who accepted the grant along with three area fire chiefs.