Progress in talks to prevent joint fire services was reported by Glen Arbor and Empire Township supervisors last week.

A joint fire department study committee met for a third time June 6 to continue exploring implications of future collaboration between the Glen Arbor and Empire fire departments. Discussion focused on an information assessment of both departments; staffing issues confronting Empire, and the potential benefits to both communities from further collaboration.

Both townships have provided joint emergency medical services since 2001.

A proposal was presented suggesting the fire service be consolidated under a new name – “Glen Lake Fire” – and the services be extended from Glen Arbor Township by contract to Empire Township in the same manner currently used for delivery of emergency medical services between the parties.

Township representatives agreed that it appears two full time firefighter/ emergency medical technicians are needed 24 hours per day, seven days a week in Empire in light of the declining number of available volunteers to serve the Empire area. The potential cost of adding staff to meet the need, along with the advantages to both townships, was also discussed.

It was suggested that the increased cost to Empire could be partially offset by reductions in other departmental costs shared between the two townships.
Committee members are scheduled to meet again June 20 to continue discussions.

In a joint statement, Glen Arbor Township Supervisor John Soderholm and Empire Supervisor Bill Bolton said it is hoped that the parties can reach a consensus on the relationship in time to be considered during the upcoming budget cycle for both departments.