The Edgecomb Fire Department’s effort to secure a $275,000 federal grant crashed last month. The Federal Emergency Management Agency failed to receive the town’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant by the Nov. 18 deadline. Department officials tried several times during the week preceding the deadline, but the agency’s website crashed each time and lost the town’s application each time, according to Fire Chief Roy Potter.

The department made one final attempt on Nov. 18 as the 5 p.m. deadline approached, but it also proved unsuccessful.

“We made four attempts earlier in the week, but each time FEMA’s website system crashed. Our final attempt occurred 15 minutes before the 5 p.m. deadline. We loaded all the information into the system, but it crashed again,” Potter said.

The department has applied for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant several times in the past, but this was the first time it was unable to submit an application. Potter hoped to receive a large enough grant to replace two vehicles: a 1981 mini-pumper and 1984 rescue truck. Potter wants to purchase a Fast Attack mini-pumper for an estimated $275,000.

Selectman Ted Hugger contacted FEMA officials twice last month about seeking a deadline extension. Hugger requested the extension because the agency’s system failure resulted in the town’s inability to meet the deadline.

“I spoke to an IT person who basically told me, ‘Too bad you missed the deadline.’ I sent an email to a supervisor who hasn’t responded yet,” he said.

Potter recommended the selectmen not complain too much about the situation. He hopes to apply again next year and doesn’t want this year’s failure impacting future applications. “I think it’s best keeping an open dialogue and hopefully prevent the same situation from happening again,” Potter said.

In other action, the selectmen tabled discussing two Hammond Fund requests. The fire department requested funds for a new flag pole and the Edgecomb Historical Society wants a donation to bolster its future fundraising efforts, according to town officials. But the selectmen didn’t have updated Hammond Fund figures and postponed considering any requests until they view a finalized town audit.

“We really can’t do anything at this point until we know how much is in the Hammond Fund,” said Selectman Jack Sarmanian.

The Hammond Fund was created in 1999 as a bequeath from Maro Hammond to benefit beautification projects within the town.

The selectmen will meet next at 6 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 19 in the municipal building.