Support for Station One!
Published: March 13, 2010
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Dear Editor, I am writing in support of the proposed renovation and addition to Station One in Apalachin. The station was constructed in 1952 and was an excellent facility for the community. It allowed the Apalachin Fire Department to provide the high level of service to the community that continues to be the standard for the Department today. When it was built it met every code requirement in effect at that time. It was and is an excellent structure. That is why the Board of Fire Commissioners decided to renovate the building. It will continue to serve the community well into the future. Of course things change in fifty years and today the building does not meet existing codes. If there is any renovation then all existing code requirements must be met. After 11 years of study and investigation the Board of Fire Commissioners decided to ask the residents of the Fire District to approve a construction project. After examining all options it was determined that in order to insure the safety of the volunteers and the community a larger facility was needed. The space available in the present structure will not permit the volunteers to operate in a safe manner. The plan decided upon by the Board of fire commissioners will provide a functional safe environment but one that is not elaborate. Some have questioned the need for office space for the Chief and assistants. The volunteers are considered "employees" of the Fire District and therefore all requirements of state and federal law must be met. In order to accomplish that, it requires private office space for meetings and individual conferencing and all associated paper work and record keeping. Some have questioned the need for a bunk area. This building is designed to meet the needs of the Emergency Services well into the future. The time is coming when volunteers may need to be at the station in order to meet the required response time. Also paid emergency medical staff may one day be required in the evening hours and must, by code, have sleeping quarters available. I would urge the community to support this essential construction project by voting yes on Tuesday, March 16 at station one between noon and 9 p.m. Sincerely, Donald R. Conning Chairman, Board of Directors Apalachin Fire Department
