Silver Creek Volunteer Fire Department in Manitowoc. September 18, 2024. PC: Fox 11 Online
TOWN OF MANITOWOC RAPIDS, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — After hearing from a number of concerned community members about fire protection, the town of Manitowoc Rapids will continue to contract with two volunteer fire departments in the area.
Tom Arndt, chief at the Rockwood Fire Department, said it’s good news.
“It’s a pause, it’s a good sigh of relief, knowing that we’ve got some more time on our side,” he said. “We were really up against the clock of them making a decision in October for a different contract result.”
The town board was in talks with the City of Manitowoc Fire Department to take over fire protection, ending contracts with the Silver Creek and Rockwood Volunteer Fire Departments.
“When it comes to people’s safety and welfare, it’s a decision based upon a town, first a foremost,” said Fire and Rescue Chief Todd Blaser with the City of Manitowoc. “But I was appreciate of the opportunity to share what we’re capable of doing and how I feel we could’ve done well for them.”
Chief Joe Stanzel from Silver Creek Volunteer Fire Service says the town board did not inform the public about the upcoming decision, so the departments took initiative and did it themselves.
“We went and told all the residents what was happening. Handed newsletters and envelopes door to door, every resident in our two territories,” he explained. “They got information, they got what they needed, they got told every time there was a meeting.”
Around 200 residents showed up to Wednesday’s meeting to support the volunteer stations. Members of both Silver Creek and Rockwood Volunteer Fire Departments say it was outstanding response.
“That’s what it’s about. You know, this isn’t about hometown politics, it’s about their hometown,” said Arndt. “These people are supporting the people of their hometown.”
Members of the public were outspoken in their disapproval of the original plan.
“The three of you came up to a solution to a problem we do not have,” Michelle Endries said. “There was no deficit of resources in people, equipment or budget, so I don’t understand what brought us to this point.”
The current contracts for the volunteer departments last until October, where they will then be renewed for another year.
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