Tredyffrin-Easttown Fire Companies Seek Funding

TREDYFFRIN, PA -- Members of the T-E Fire Companies Funding Coalition will present details on member fire companies’ essential equipment and operating expenses, current and projected, to the Tredyffrin Township Board of Supervisors at 7 p.m. on Nov. 21, the coalition announced.

The presentations and anticipated discussion are part of the Coalition’s ongoing effort to work with township leaders to find a sustainable and predictable means of funding the volunteer fire companies that serve the two townships: Berwyn Fire Co., Paoli Fire Co., Radnor Fire Co., and Malvern Fire Co. These meetings are also an opportunity for Tredyffrin and Easttown residents to learn more and weigh in.

“The Coalition and our township leaders have had multiple discussions over the past year about this serious issue, and we have made significant progress toward solving it,” said Berwyn Fire Co. Chief and Coalition member Eamon Brazunas, in a statement. “While increases in 2017 budget funding will be greatly appreciated and used judiciously, Coalition and Township leaders understand there is more work to be undertaken in the upcoming year,” Brazunas said.

According to the coalition, through this year, municipal funds account for less than 25 percent of the T-E fire companies’ annual budgets. The balance of funds to support fire/EMS operations are derived primarily from private donations from residents and businesses and Ambulance billing.

“Our volunteers give so much of their time to respond to emergencies, train in the skills they need to do so and teach fire prevention,” said Paoli Fire Company Chief Andrea Testa. “We want to see the volunteer spirit continue at our fire companies and by lessening the burden and worry about funding, this will have a major impact in this regard,” Testa said.

Tredyffrin’s 7 p.m., Nov. 21 meeting will be held at the township building, 1100 Duportail Road, Berwyn, PA 19312.

Image and information courtesy Kellie Gates.