Slaughter Announces $72,168 in Federal Funding for Tonawanda Fire Tower

Money will be Used to Repair Facility for Firefighter Training

Washington, DC - Rep. Louise M. Slaughter (D-Fairport), Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee, is pleased to announce that the managers of Tonawanda's fire training tower have received $72,168 in federal funds for necessary repairs. The money was included in the VA-HUD Appropriations Act of FY2005.

"I can't say enough on behalf of the men and women who risk their lives to keep our communities safe from fire," Rep. Slaughter said. "They have waited long enough to have this vital facility restored. I'm so glad that we have provided them with what they need to complete their mission safely and successfully," she added.

Tonawanda's fire training tower has been deemed unsafe for use until necessary repairs are completed. The facility is used by nearly 500 firefighters, representing nine fire departments located in four different municipalities.

Firefighters use the tower to practice a variety of rescue and fire attack maneuvers. Until it is fully repaired, training activities will continue to be delayed, thereby putting in danger the lives of both firefighters and the citizens who depend on them for their rescue and fire suppression efforts.