Officials: Consolidation of 3 fire departments improves efficiency, economics
One year ago, on March 19, 2013, the Pomeroy-Parkesburg-Atglen Fire Companies took a vote and officially became the Keystone Valley Fire Department of Chester County.
This date was the official start of the newly consolidated Fire Department. However, the consolidation process was built on many meetings since 2009, much communication, mutual respect, teamwork, and compromise. It was not an easy process at times but the stakeholders came together, and to this day are working together to build KVFD, and serve the community, a Keystone news release said.
Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary C. Alan Walker echoed the sentiments of many a year ago when he stated: “Consolidation is a viable option for fire companies that are having difficulties meeting budgets and recruiting volunteers. Today’s announcement will result in cost-saving efficiencies and a stronger base of more than 70 volunteers.”
“Our slogan very well sums it up: Working Regionally to Survive Locally,” said Chief Raymond Stackhouse, commemorating the anniversary. “We strive every day to serve our district, and our neighboring departments on mutual aid assignments, with honor, courage, and service, all based on tradition … I am proud of the work our department does every day, and although we are still a work-in-progress, it’s been a great first year.”
The KVFD operates out of three stations, one located in Pomeroy known as the East, one located in Parkesburg known as the Central, and one located in Atglen known as the West. The KVFD is averaging over 30 fire calls a month with 40 active crew members attending the weekly training on Monday nights, the release said. It serves Highland, West Sadsbury, and Sadsbury Townships, and Parkesburg Borough, the release said.
In addition, the company averages 10 responders per call with more responding if the call so requires additional staffing. The EMS division has a paid (career) staff and dedicated group of volunteers averaging over 100 calls per month with an ever-increasing volume of second calls.
