COUNTY - Three fire departments in the Municipality of Lunenburg are going to amalgamate.

 Departments in Newcombville, Chelsea and Baker Settlement have decided to join forces as a result of economic issues the small departments are facing, said municipal clerk April Whynot-Lohnes at a recent council meeting.

 "They're not really sure what they're up against in this process. ... And they want to make sure that their transition is as smooth as possible," she said.

 Ms Whynot-Lohnes said rising fire rates and varying service standards are issues with residents.

 Fire chiefs Paul Hayes, Karl Meisner and Albert Parsons have asked council for help in the amalgamation process.

 "During the last 45 years, these departments have worked hard to provide emergency services such as fire, medical, motor vehicle accident, flood control and rescue to our respective communities," wrote the three chiefs in a letter to Councillor John Veinot.

 "Due to many circumstances, such as funding, manpower, aging equipment ... training and growing demands for our services, it becomes harder and harder to provide the prompt and professional services that our community members expect and deserve."

 The fire chiefs wrote that the next step for the three departments would be to amalgamate to form one department.

 "This will not be a simple operation, and we will need advice and guidance from the municipality on many matters, including legal, financial, such as matching and operating grants, insurance and area rates to mention just a few," they wrote.

 "With all parties working together, we will become a strong and vibrant fire and emergency services that will grow through the years and be a beacon to other small departments in the surrounding areas," they added.

 To assist the volunteer departments in their quest, the chiefs asked the municipality for help. The departments were granted the help of the municipality's solicitor and clerk.

advertisement

 Deputy Mayor Martin Bell said amalgamation is a positive step towards a co-operative approach.

 "I fully support our staff to assist in this process," he said. "If they [the departments] have made this decision we should be prepared to work with them to make this a seamless process."

 At a council meeting on July 13, Councillor John Veinot, who represents the district where the departments are located, moved the request be granted.

 The three fire chiefs were contacted for an interview on amalgamation. Mr. Hayes responded saying they were not ready to discuss the issue with the media.

posted on 07/20/10