During a press conference in Naples, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Blaise Ingoglia announced $1.6 million in awards to strengthen several Florida fire departments, including funding for vital equipment to protect firefighters from harmful chemicals and enhancements to their response capabilities.
Ingoglia, as CFO, is also the State's Fire Marshal.
"Over the years, the profession of being a firefighter has evolved and there are more dangers facing our firefighters than ever before," Ingoglia said in a release. "This is why it is crucial that Florida's emergency responders are equipped with the resources they need to continue to save lives. I am proud that as Florida's State Fire Marshal, I am able to travel the state to meet with our firefighters and find more ways to support them as they serve our communities."
According to the release, funding was made possible through grant programs from the Department of Financial Services allocated in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-2026 budget.
Specifically, the Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Grant supplies financial assistance for equipment and training designed to reduce exposure to cancer-causing chemicals.
Awards given through the Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Grant include:
- City of Cape Coral: $25,296
- Sanibel Fire and Rescue: $32,171.36
In addition, the Firefighter Assistance Grant gives financial support aimed at improving emergency response capabilities.
Awards given through the Firefighter Assistance Grant include:
- Hendry County: $30,435
Overall, the Department of Financial Services has awarded the following funds through the FY 2025-26 budget.
- City of Naples Fire Rescue High Water Engine: $400,000
- Charlotte County Fire and EMS Services High Water Rescue Vehicles: $825,000
- Lee County South Trail Fire District High Water Rescue Vehicle: $370,000
Ingoglia was appointed CFO by Gov. Ron DeSantis in July 2025. He announced a run for a full term for the position in September 2025. In the race, he is largely expected to win re-election after Rep. Kevin Steele (R-Dade City) dropped out of the contest.
Rep. Steele endorsed Ingoglia in the race.
The CFO election is Nov. 3.
