The grant for Flint funds sign-on and retention bonuses, performance incentives, leadership and training, aiming to boost morale, readiness and public trust.

By Aya Miller
mlive.com

FLINT, Mich. — A $1.5 million grant will support the recruitment, retention and professional development of first responders in Flint.

The funding will support sign-on bonuses, retention bonuses and performance-based incentives for personnel, according to a press release from the City of Flint. The funding will also be used for professional development in leadership, crisis management and operational preparedness as well as for technology upgrades.

| READ NEXT: “We won the grant! — Now what?”

“This investment reinforces Flint’s ongoing commitment to strengthening public safety,” said Mayor Sheldon Neeley. “We’re not just improving public safety — we’re building a more stable, motivated, and community-focused workforce.”

Funding opportunities within the departments were identified through research conducted by the city’s human resources department.

Improved recruitment, stronger retention and higher morale among public safety staff are expected outcomes from the funding. The investment also supports long-term goals of building community trust and ensuring efficient, effective emergency response, the release said.

The funding was approved through the state’s revenue sharing and grants division and will be available through fiscal year 2028. It’s part of a larger statewide effort to attract and retain qualified first responders while improving operational readiness, the release said.

Looking to navigate the complexities of grants funding? Lexipol is your go-to resource for state-specific, fully developed grants services that can help fund your needs. Find out more about our grants services here.

A City Council proposal would require four-person crews, though the department says coverage is adequate and meeting the standard could mean overtime

October 13, 2025 11:11 AM

Massachusetts chiefs report 18–48-month waits and prices that have doubled since pre-pandemic, forcing stock or used buys and stretching budgets

October 13, 2025 10:32 AM

Susan “Suzie” Smith served more than 50 years as a nurse and was hailed for her impact on EMS care and education

October 11, 2025 07:47 PM

 · 

The former Sheridan Park Fire Company treasurer admitted stealing nearly $450,000 to fuel a gambling habit

October 12, 2025 08:00 AM

©2025 Advance Local Media LLC.
Visit mlive.com.
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Combined company will deliver improved network experiences, low prices and new benefits to millions more customers across the U.S.

September 24, 2025 01:35 PM