Coopersburg Council Asks to Audit Fire Company

Coopersburg Council, during its first reading of the proposed 2013 budget Tuesday night, discussed a possible audit of the fire company and heard criticism from the fire chief.

A part of the proposed budget includes $6,000 that could be used for an audit that council would like performed on the Coopersburg Fire Company.

Fire Chief Kevin Farnish said the action was unnecessary and insulting.

"I feel saddened for what the borough has dragged the fire department through for the last 30 years," said Farnish. "We've always been questioned about spending money like drunken sailors."

Council attempted to assure the fire chief that the potential audit would not come from a lack of trust. The audit is an idea conceived from unclear expenditures and unfiled tax returns.

"It is our fiscal responsibility," said Councilman Steve Lundy. "It is not a matter of mistrust. If I did not look at all the facts and then voted for that, it would be irresponsible on my part."

"We just want something we can see," said Councilwoman Linda Minarik. "We want something in writing."

Council can only hope that Farnish and the fire department become more accepting of the concept of an audit. If not, it must be determined who has authority to do what.