Socorro County Fire Department secures $150,000 for FY26 recruitment

The Socorro County Fire Department has been awarded $150,000 through the FY26 Firefighter Recruitment Funds (FFRF), a statewide initiative designed to strengthen local firefighting capacity across New Mexico. Administered by the Department of Finance and Administration’s Local Government Division, the funding recognizes departments with strong recruitment and retention strategies.

In an official letter dated August 13, 2025, Division Director Cecilia Mavrommatis commended Socorro County’s “clear commitment to strengthening local firefighting capacity through thoughtful recruitment and retention efforts.” The funding period runs from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, and all funds must be expended by the end of the fiscal year.

County Manager Andrew Lotrich emphasized the importance of the award as the department transitions from an all-volunteer model to a hybrid structure.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to help expand the recruitment and retention of highly qualified firefighters,” he said. “We hope to provide additional training opportunities and a career ladder for some of our current volunteers.”

Lotrich also expressed interest in using the funds to honor long-serving volunteers and create new slots for incoming recruits.

“It would be beneficial if the state allowed us to recognize the contributions of our volunteers throughout the years,” he said.

The department is awaiting final spending parameters and reporting instructions from the state. Lotrich thanked both the state and local communities for their support in preparing the grant application, adding, “This is proof that by working together, we can achieve more.”