Poor Economy Causes Cutbacks
On March 9th, the Board had to make difficult decisions regarding the services it provides to the community of French Broad Fire District. Starting April 1, 2010, the department will no longer have 24 hour paid coverage. The ambulance will only run from 8am to 8pm. After 8pm the department will be unmanned and volunteers will respond on any calls. Buncombe County EMS will be providing the coverage for an ambulance. Budget cutbacks also mean we have to cut hours even futher and on the weekends there will be only 2 paid personnel instead of 3, with the volunteers covering more on the weekends. This.was not an easy decision to come to by the Board but due to a $100,000 loss in the budget due to a poor economy and also the fire tax being lowered to 12 cents cuts had to be made.
Any questions or concerns about these cutbacks can be directed to Matthew Shelton, Chief.
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Board Appoints New Chief
On March 9th, 2010, Patrick Shrimplin resigned as Chief. Patrick accepted a new job position with the State Forestry Department, serving as Ranger 3. Patrick has served at Chief for the past two years. While the department is saddened by his resignation,we are elated at this wonderful opportunity for him and his family. Patrick continues on at the department as a volunteer. We wish Patrick all the best on his new job.
The Board appointed Matthew Shelton to fill Patrick's position for the remaining term. Matthew was the department's Captain and has been with department for the past 16 years.
Though there are many changes ahead for the department and the community, one thing remains the same, the departments dedication to its community members and its needs.
New Photos and polls. Click on the following link below:
www.frenchbroadfire.shutterfly.com
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USEFUL LINKS
WWW.DFR.STATE.NC.US www.wlos.com