BANKS, Ark. — The Banks Volunteer Fire Department is celebrating a series of grants, equipment acquisitions and improvements in 2026, including the addition of two firefighting vehicles and funding to help complete its new fire station.
In an announcement shared Saturday, October 17, the Town of Banks highlighted several developments that have strengthened the department’s firefighting capabilities and resources over the past year.
Earlier this year, the department received a Wildland Suppression Kit Grant valued at approximately $15,000, providing gear, tools and accessories to assist firefighters in responding to wildland fires.
The department also secured a $90,000 Rural Services Block Grant to complete the interior phase of its new fire station. The grant was awarded July 13 during a special ceremony at the Arkansas State Capitol. According to the town, this marks the second time the department has received funding through the program.
More recently, the department was awarded a like-new tanker truck from the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division.
The department also received $20,000 in Act 833 funding this month and purchased an additional used forestry truck to serve as a backup vehicle.
With the additions, the Banks Fire Department’s fleet now consists of six vehicles: one brush truck, two forestry trucks, two pumpers and one water tanker.
The department is also hoping to secure another significant round of funding. A $120,000 grant application through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) remains pending. If approved, the money would be used to upgrade structural turnout gear and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) equipment worn by firefighters.
Combined, the grants and Act 833 funding already received represent approximately $125,000 in support, not including the value of the tanker truck.
The Town of Banks expressed appreciation to those who helped make the improvements possible, particularly the community’s volunteer firefighters.
“We don’t like to brag…but we cannot contain our excitement!” the town wrote in its announcement.
The investments represent a significant boost in equipment, facilities and resources for the volunteer department as it continues serving Banks and the surrounding area.
