WOODSTOCK - Fire Chief Geff Inman told selectmen Tuesday that his department has been approved for a $43,000 federal Department of Homeland Security grant. The money will be used to upgrade turnout gear and auxiliary equipment.

"We have received word we have been approved for $43,000 from Homeland Security's National Fire Act, and we just need your input as how best to proceed," Inman said. "I believe we need to go before a town meeting to see if the people are willing to accept the grant so how does the board feel about this?"

Selectmen were pleased to learn of the grant and agreed to put it before voters so the department can proceed.

A special town meeting has been planned for Feb. 5 to act on the grant.

Praising Inman and his department members, Selectman Ronald Deegan said, "I feel your efforts here should be publicly acknowledged. I applaud your efforts in finding this money and going out there to get it."

Inman also updated selectmen on work on the department's budget and said he will be able to hold the line with the $39,000 figure approved in March 2007.

"I feel we will be able to keep our budget at $39,000 this year," he said. "With the economy what it is and we being the taxpayers we are going to do our best to hold the line."