The Forest Home Volunteer Fire Department is hoping the fourth time is the charm.

The volunteer fire department is applying for a $300,000 grant to build a new fire station. Previously, the fire department has applied through ADECA, but this time the grant application is going through FEMA, said volunteer Mary Till.

“We have a better chance of approval because we do not have to wait in line,” said Till. “We just have to hope for the best.”

During the July meeting of the county commission, the fire department asked the county to provide in-kind work if the grant is approved. The county agreed.

Fire chief Mickey Sexton estimated the amount of in-kind work to be $20,000. Having the county’s agreement to provide in-kind service increases the likelihood of the grant’s acceptance, said Till. – From Staff Reports