The City of Rocklin has been awarded a $3 million dollar Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant to help expand the City’s firefighting team and support emergency response coverage for the community. The City Council accepted the grant at the October 14 meeting.

The SAFER Grant, administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is part of a national program that provides funding to fire departments to increase staffing, improve response times, and enhance public and firefighter safety. Congress appropriated $324 million to the DHS for the Fiscal Year 2024 SAFER Program to help communities nationwide maintain adequate protection from fire and related hazards.

Rocklin applied for the funding in May 2025 to support the addition of nine new firefighter positions that will staff the City’s fourth fire station, planned for east Rocklin. The new station is currently in design and expected to begin construction in 2026.

The grant will fund 75% of firefighter salaries and benefits for the first two years and 35% in the third year, helping offset personnel costs as the City continues to grow and service demands increase.

“This grant represents a major investment in Rocklin’s future,” said Mayor Jill Gayaldo. “Every second matters in an emergency, and these new firefighter positions will help ensure our community continues to receive the fast, professional response it deserves. Strengthening our fire and emergency medical services isn’t just about today—it’s about protecting the wellbeing of Rocklin families for years to come.”

Fire Chief Reggie Williams added, “This grant helps strengthen our staffing levels to maintain strong response times and ensure safe, effective operations on every call. With these additional positions, we can continue providing timely emergency services and protect both our residents and our fire personnel.”

The funding reflects Rocklin’s ongoing commitment to maintaining rapid response times and protecting the community’s safety while being responsible with taxpayer dollars. By pursuing grant opportunities like SAFER, the City continues to find innovative and cost-effective ways to meet growing service needs and support Rocklin’s exceptional quality of life.