Warsaw-Wayne Township Fire Protection Territory Board approved the purchase of a new battalion chief command vehicle during a December meeting.

By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

WARSAW — The Warsaw-Wayne Township Fire Territory Board approved the purchase of a new battalion chief command vehicle during a meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 1.

The new vehicle would replace the fire territory’s Chevy Tahoe.

Fire Chief Mike Wilson said the territory had funds in its budget this year for two new vehicles; however, after consulting with the city’s mechanic, the territory decided to not replace its grass rig at this point in time due to its mileage and age.

“The Tahoe has seen its better days,” said Wilson. “Chief (Robert) Barker and what the battalion chiefs came up with is a great design. It’s something that is open on both sides; they’ll be able to put all their equipment in it and have room for growth for the future.”

Wilson also announced that starting in 2021, the fire territory is planning to offer a citizens’ fire academy to community members. This would be similar to the program the Warsaw Police Department offers to the public. Wilson said he hopes to get the program started either in May or June.

“It gives us the opportunity to get civilians into the fire station and show them what we do, give them some hands-on experience with what we’re doing,” said Wilson.

A monthly fire activity report for the month of October was also provided to the board by Wilson. WWFT had 245 calls for service, including one residential fire that resulted in minimal damage.

For October medical calls, Station 1 responded to 71; Station 2 responded to 77; and Station 3 responded to 17 calls for service.

All five current members of the fire territory board were also reappointed to serve in 2021. The board’s members are Warsaw Common Councilman Mike Klondaris; Warsaw Mayor Joe Thallemer; Wayne Township Trustee Jeanie Stackhouse; Wayne Township Board Member Gordon Nash; and Brandon Schmitt, independent community member and former WWFT firefighter.

The board’s next meeting is at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 5.