Representatives from both the Hopkins Area Fire Department and the Martin Fire Department continue to make presentations to the Watson Township Board over the issue of which department offers coverage.
Lt. Trevor Bilbee of Hopkins and Chief Kurt Knight of Martin Fire & Rescue again outlined what services and equipment they have in the wake of news Watson is considering a proposal to have Hopkins handle the entire township. That would mean the current agreement for Martin’s coverage of the southeast part of the township for $15,000 would be scrapped. The current contract expires March 31, 2021.
Capt. Dillon Thomas of Martin gave a presentation on Martin’s long-time relationship with Watson and maintained that it serves the south and east parts because of proximity. He told Watson officials Martin handled 45 Watson calls last year.
Thomas pointed out that in bygones days Martin handled most if not all fire coverage in Watson.
Bilbee came up with a proposal that the Hopkins substation at the Watson Township Hall be allowed to add a third door top better handle equipment and trucks. Hopkins has operated out the hall since 2005.
“The problem is, we’re busting at the seams,” Bilbee said. He added that with a third door, they could put in an ambulance.
The Watson Board agreed to transfer unused money set aside for transfer station maintenance and spend about $11,600 on the added fire door. The work will be done by Dorr Building & Plumbing.
Helen Goyings, who is running for the supervisor’s post in November, told the board she concerned about the change’s effect on ISO safety ratings, which will impact area homeowners.
In other business at Thursday night’s meeting, the board:
- Voted to spend an additional 20 cents per gallon with Michigan Chloride Sales to buy an increase of 100% natural materials for dust control on 114th and 112th Avenues. The next application is scheduled for July 10.
- Agreed to renew annual membership dues with the Michigan Townships Association for $1,362.51.
- Voted to pre-buy 1,700 gallons of propane at a cost of $2,718.30.
- Renewed the insurance contract with Burnham & Flowers $4,799.