ARTESIA — The New Mexico State Fire Marshal’s Office has announced that $75 million from the state’s fire fund will be distributed to departments around the state.
A total of 99 municipalities in New Mexico received $29,395,413, and 257 county stations received $40,765,656. A total of $75,814,631 was distributed for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024, a 5.6% increase over the FY2023 distribution of $71,765,073.
According to data distributed by the state fire marshal, the Artesia Fire Department’s Station No. 1 received a total of $263,890 of that funding.
“The annual distribution to certified fire departments from the New Mexico Fire Fund is used for the operation, maintenance and improvement of the fire department,” said Artesia Fire Chief Kevin Hope. “The distribution amount varies each year and is based on the number and type of stations in a response district, the Insurance Services Office rating score (ISO classification), and the amount of insurance tax revenue per year.
“This year’s distribution for Artesia, with two main stations and an ISO classification of 2, is $263,890, up from $252,040 last year. The base/minimum amount for Artesia is $154,172 per year; however, we have not seen that base amount since 2013.”
Eddy County’s volunteer departments — Atoka, Cottonwood, Happy Valley, Joel, La Huerta, Loco Hills, Malaga, Otis, Queen, Riverside and Sun Country — received a combined total of $2,115,260.
Carlsbad was awarded $698,429, Loving $200,552, and Hope $95,124.
“These funds will be utilized to maintain our stations, grounds, and upgrade our training grounds,” said Eddy County Fire and Rescue Chief Joshua Mack.
The New Mexico Fire Fund is funded through a small portion of insurance premiums.
“The State Fire Marshal’s office is pleased to provide this vital funding to departments large and small across the state,” said State Fire Marshal Randy Varela. “I know that a well-funded and well-trained department is important for everyone’s safety and with this funding, we’re supporting operations, equipment and training at a record level.”
The application period to apply for the Fire Grant Fund is now open. Departments must submit applications before Aug. 31 by visiting newmexicostatefireservicesgrant.com.
