Warminster Eyeing Paid Firefighters

WARMINSTER, PA — Officials in Warminster are looking into augmenting the township's two volunteer fire companies with paid firefighters.

Last week, supervisors received a study looking at the status of fire protection services in the township. While existing volunteers earned high marks for training, operations and equipment, officials say a declining number of volunteers and other factors have led them to consider new options.

"Warminster is very fortunate that we have these volunteers who are willing to give so much of their time to protect us," said Township Manager Gregg Schuster, in a letter to residents. "The volunteers need help though."

Schuster said it's time for a "community conversation" on hiring paid firefighters in Warminster. Most surrounding municipalities already pay fire personnel, he said.

"The purpose of having paid firefighters is not to replace the volunteers, but rather support their efforts by providing services at times the volunteers can't," Schuster said. "This will not be an overnight transition and more discussions will be held on how this occurs, when to do it, and how it will be funded."