Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia Awards Over $1.4 Million to Support Florida Fire Departments
4/9/2026
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BRADENTON, Fla.- Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Blaise Ingoglia awarded over $1.4 million to support Florida fire departments. The money awarded today to five fire departments helps provide the resources necessary to protect our firefighter and our communities.
Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia said, “As State Fire Marshal, it is a privilege to support Florida’s firefighters who continually run towards danger to protect their communities. It is imperative that firefighters have all the tools and equipment they need to respond quickly and effectively to emergency situations, and the tools to protect themselves after a fire from the cancer-causing chemicals they may have come in contact with. This funding is a step forward in ongoing efforts to protect firefighters and the communities they serve.”
Florida Professional Firefighters District Vice President Jason Berzowski said, “Firefighters work every day to serve and protect their communities. Thank you, CFO Ingoglia, for bringing awareness to firefighter health and safety and for your continued support of the firefighter community.”
Hardee County Public Safety Director Casey Dasher said, “Thank you, CFO Ingoglia, for awarding us today with the money to purchase brush fire trucks. This will help us respond more effectively and efficiently to fast-moving fires that threaten our community.”
DeSoto County Fire Chief Chad Jergensen said, “By establishing a new fire training tower, we can better prepare our firefighters to put out fires quicker, limit property damage, and save lives. I am grateful to CFO Ingoglia for awarding this funding to our department.”
East Manatee Fire Rescue Chief Lee Whitehurst said, “The fires we see today are much more complex and devastating than ever before. Thank you, CFO Ingoglia, for awarding funding that allows us to continue to look after the brave men and women who serve tirelessly in this role.”
Parrish Fire Rescue Chief Stacey Bailey said, “I want to extend my gratitude to CFO Ingoglia for strengthening our ability to respond to any and all emergencies. This money is an investment in public safety that guarantees we have better capabilities to save lives and property. Thank you for making the safety of our heroes your passion!”
Longboat Key Fire Chief Paul Dezzi said, “Florida’s firefighters are incredibly thankful to have a State Fire Marshal that remains dedicated to supporting us with necessary equipment and protective gear to quickly offer help to the residents we serve.”
The Department of Financial Services provides the Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Grant and the Firefighter Assistance Grant to strengthen emergency response capabilities and improve firefighter safety. The grants offer financial assistance with purchasing equipment, supplies, and training to reduce exposure to cancer-causing chemicals.
Additionally, funding is appropriated in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-2026 Budget.
Awards made through the Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Grant
- East Manatee Fire Rescue District - $12,248.25
- Town of Longboat Key - $7,976.29
Awards made through the Firefighter Assistance Grant
- Parrish Fire District - $20,672.20
Awards funded in the FY 2025-2026 Budget
- DeSoto County Fire Training Tower - $1,000,000
- Hardee County Brush Fire Trucks - $400,000
Photos
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About the CFO
Florida
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Blaise Ingoglia serves as
the state’s top financial watchdog, a member of the Florida Cabinet, and the
head of the Florida Department of Financial Services. As CFO, he oversees
billions of dollars in state funds and is committed to protecting taxpayer
dollars, strengthening Florida’s fiscal health, and delivering essential
services that support the state’s excellent economy. As State Fire Marshal, CFO
Ingoglia also works every day to support Florida’s first responders as they
risk their lives to serve and protect communities across the state.