Hurlock Fire Company receives $1.6 million with the help of Congressman Andy Harris

HURLOCK, Md. – The Hurlock Volunteer Fire Company is getting some funding that will help them protect their community well into the future.

Former President Brian Tolley gave a tour to Congressional District 1, Representative Andy Harris, and he said, the department securing these funds will change the financial landscape for the better.

“It means a lot. It goes to show you, he really cares about the community and the people we serve.”

Congressional representative Harris hit several stops across Maryland’s Dorchester County to check in on those who need. Although much of the talk in the state is about Harris losing his district in a redistricting measure pushed by Democratic lawmakers.

For crucial fleet replacements, Congressman Harris acquired $1.65 million via the Agriculture Appropriations bill.

Tolley tells WMDT that modern costs for the technology were too much for the fire company to bear. “The prices of apparatus have doubled since probably 5 years ago, and it is incredibly hard to raise the amount of money to keep our fleets going.”

For Congressman Harris, he explains that working for the district is something he doesn’t take lightly. “You are absolutely right, this is a 24/7, 365 job. We have to know what places need help.”

A redistricting bill by state Democratic lawmakers has placed Representative Harris at the center of a political crisis, in his view. The potential move he believes would dilute his voter base in a district that has elected him for eight terms, if voters statewide approve the ballot measure in November.

Despite this, Harris asserts that his district’s progress remains an ongoing priority.

“Whether it’s our poultry industry, our agriculture industry, our watermen, Ocean City and the tourism industry, the volunteer fire companies, first responders, they all need help, and I am in the position to help them.”