Cleona Borough Council Approves DCED Study for Fire Department Regionalization
Written by Jake Keiter and fetaured in our October 11th Print Edition
Annville-Cleona Volunteer Fire Company Pursues DCED Study for Regionalization
In a recent Cleona Borough Council meeting held on October 2, 2023, several important developments unfolded that will significantly impact the future of public safety and community services in the region.
The Fire Department’s Forward-Thinking Approach
The highlight of the meeting was a presentation by the Annville-Cleona Volunteer Fire Company, which formally approached the council requesting approval for a DCED (Department of Community and Economic Development) Study aimed at exploring the possibility of regionalization. The fire company’s leadership, though currently stable, is taking a proactive approach to plan for the future of fire services in the area.
A Collaborative Study for Enhanced Fire Services
The proposed study will be conducted in collaboration with neighboring fire departments, including North Cornwall, West Cornwall, and Cornwall Borough. Its primary objective is to assess the feasibility of merging volunteer and paid fire departments into a single, more cost-effective force. This consolidation aims to ensure ample staff coverage across the region while maximizing the efficiency of fire services.
Unanimous Council Approval
Council members unanimously approved the request to authorize the letter of intent for this crucial study. It is expected that the study will span over the course of at least a year, during which in-depth analysis and evaluations will be carried out to determine the potential benefits and challenges of the proposed merger.
Annville Free Library Celebrates Expansion
In a lighter note, Frank Yeager of the Annville Free Library also addressed the council during the meeting. He shared the exciting news that the library’s long-anticipated expansion is now open to the public. The library staff and board members cordially invited community members to visit and explore the new addition.
Grand Opening Event
Yeager went on to announce an official grand opening event for the expanded library, scheduled for November 11th. All residents and community members are encouraged to mark their calendars for this special occasion, which promises to be a celebration of literacy and community spirit.
Ongoing Renovations
Additionally, Yeager assured attendees that ongoing renovations to update some of the older sections of the library are well underway. These renovations are expected to be completed in a matter of months, further enhancing the library’s services and overall experience for patrons.
The Cleona Borough Council meeting on October 2, 2023, highlighted the commitment of local organizations and authorities to ensure the safety, well-being, and cultural enrichment of the community. With the approval of the DCED Study, the potential for a regionalized fire department offers a glimpse into a more efficient and cost-effective future for fire services in the region. Simultaneously, the expanded Annville Free Library promises to be a hub of knowledge, culture, and community engagement for years to come.
