Matt Dunithan, left, president of the Turkey Creek Fire Territory Board, chats with Fire Chief Mickey Scott, before the November fire territory board meeting. Photo by Lauren Zeugner.

By Lauren Zeugner
InkFreeNews

SYRACUSE — Fire Chief Mickey Scott started off the Turkey Creek Fire Territory board’s regular meeting Monday night, Nov. 10, by requesting a moment of silence for Larry Hunter, who passed away Friday, Nov. 7. Hunter served on the Syracuse Fire Department, where he served as fire chief prior to the fire territory’s formation.

Scott reported the department has received nine applications for open positions in the department.

The fire territory board approved the 2026 salary ordinance. Scott told the board it was drawn from the 2025 salary ordinance with minor changes. Salaries remained the same. Scott noted budget constraints prevented giving fire personnel a raise next year.

Deputy Chief Quinn Hunter said there were some minor changes such as workman’s compensation. Hunter said the information he has received regarding workman’s compensation has been confusing and he is still seeking information.

The board addressed a letter from board member Corky Wong regarding Syracuse volunteer firefighters. Wong met with volunteer firefighters while Matt Dunithan, board president, met with Hunter and Volunteer Fire Chief Kevin Grindle. Dunithan said both entities need to discuss issues, stating the matter is one of communication.

It was also noted Syracuse Volunteers LLC is contracted with the township trustee, not Turkey Creek Fire Territory. Scott explained this was in order for tax dollars to be distributed to volunteer firefighters for their clothing allowance and other expenses.

Board member Nathan Scherer noted the letter mentioned confusion over the fire board’s purpose and the role of the president of the fire board.

Dunithan suggested bringing the volunteer firefighters into the fire territory at some point in the future.

Wong was asked if he would like to remain on the board for 2026. He said yes. He has to be approved by both the Turkey Creek Township Advisory Board and the Syracuse Town Council.

The next Turkey Creek Fire Territory Board meeting will be at 6:45 p.m. Dec. 8 in the Syracuse Town Hall.