Saturday, March 06, 1999
Merging three fire departments studied
Consultant to be hired
BY DAVID ECK
Enquirer contributor
FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP — Officials from Franklin, Carlisle and Franklin Township on Thursday took the first steps that could lead to a new fire district in the three Warren County communities.
But officials said that a merger is at least a year away — if ever.
The three governments agreed to spend $5,000 each to hire a consultant to review the three fire departments' operations, budgets, staffing and equipment.
The consultant could then make a recommendation as to whether a merger of the three makes sense or if it would be better for them to remain separate.
Carlisle Village Manager Brad Townsend, Franklin City Manager James Lukas and Franklin Township Administrator Vince Ross were appointed to hire the consultant.
“None of us have the technical expertise to really make those determinations,” Mr. Lukas said. “I'm sure it's going to be a recommendation in some respect. It's just another example of the governmental entities working together.”
The three fire departments, though separate, work closely together and enjoy a good relationship. They tend to help each other out.
The township recently agreed to buy two advanced thermal imaging helmets for use by Franklin and Carlisle fire crews. Franklin has offered a used fire truck to Carlisle for a nominal price.
Officials from all three areas said the study should be worthwhile, even if there is no recommendation to form a joint district.
“It's just a look-see,” Franklin Mayor James Mears said. “The study's going to be well worth it for $5,000.”
Carlisle Mayor Patrick Long anticipates the study will reveal each department's strengths and weaknesses. That will help officials in their planning, even if there is no merger or joint district.
The managers are to meet next week to begin selecting a consultant. Officials from all three communities hope to have the study completed by mid-summer.
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