News digest

Florida Fire District awarded $75,000 for property improvementsFLORIDA — The Florida Fire District has been awarded a $75,000 grant for blacktop paving at the fire house and the building of a mezzanine for additional storage.
The grant was secured by state Sen. John J. Bonacic through the State and Municipal Facilities Program, funding for which was secured in the 2017-2018 state budget.
The Florida Fire District is in need of additional space for the storage of fire equipment, breathing apparatus, fire hose, turnout gear, portable pumps and a ready room for volunteers on duty. The grant will go toward building a mezzanine for the storage of those items as well as a rescue ATV. The grant will also pay for paving of the firehouse’s parking lot.
“Our local first responders deserve the best working conditions and these upgrades at the fire house will allow the men and women of the Florida Fire District to better serve the public,” Bonacic said in the press release announcing the grant. “In addition these grants funds will save the Village residents money.”
Robert J. Schreibeis Sr., chairman of the Florida Fire District Board of Commissioners, said: “This grant will allow our members to better serve the village residents.”
Robert J. Schreibeis Sr. wants to be the Village of Florida’s next MayorFLORIDA — Robert J. Schreibeis Sr., the chairman of the Florida Fire District Board of Commissioners, has announced that he plans to seek the office of Mayor of the Village of Florida.
In the press release announcing his candidacy, Schreibeis said he brings a wealth of both business and government experience to his campaign. He has served the Village of Florida on the Planning Board, Zoning Board and the Regional Board of Directors for Provident Bank. He also serves on the Orange County Industrial Development Agency Board.
Schreibeis has resided in the Village of Florida for all of his 68 years. He is a graduate of S.S. Seward Institute and has operated Schreibeis Trucking and Excavating as well as related companies in the village since 1970.
Schreibeis also said he has the endorsement of current Florida Trustees, Thomas Fuller, Brian Slattery, Craig Olejniczak and John Barczak Jr.
Incumbent Mayor James Pawliczek, who was first elected in 2002, is not expected to run for re-election, according to the candidate’s press release.
Greenwood Lake Chamber holds holiday mixer on Dec. 12GREENWOOD LAKE — The Greenwood Lake Chamber of Commerce will hold it annual holiday mixer on Tuesday, Dec. 12, beginning at 7 p.m., at the Emerald Point Restaurant, 40 Sterling Road in Greenwood Lake.
Appetizers will be served along with a cash bar.
This event is free for current members and their significant plus one and $10 for non-members.