Drakeville Volunteer Fire Chief requests $60K stipend from Torrington board of finance

The Torrington Board of Finance convened on March 18, 2025, to address key funding requests that could significantly impact local emergency services. Chief Tom Kalinowski of the Drakeville Volunteer Fire Department presented a compelling case for the retention of a $60,000 allocation intended for volunteer fire services. This funding is crucial as Drakeville has recently become the sole provider of supplemental fire services in the city, following the loss of another volunteer department.

Kalinowski emphasized that the department has seen a rapid increase in personnel, which has improved response times but also led to higher operational costs. He clarified that the request is not for additional funds but rather to ensure that the already allocated amount remains dedicated to supporting volunteer services, which constitutes just 1% of the city's total fire budget.

The board members, who participated both in person and via Zoom, engaged in discussions about the implications of this funding request. The approval of this allocation would not only support the operational needs of the Drakeville department but also ensure continued fire service reliability for the community.

As the meeting progressed, the board opened the floor to public comments, highlighting the importance of community engagement in financial decisions. The discussions underscored the board's commitment to addressing the needs of local emergency services while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

The outcome of this meeting could set a precedent for future funding allocations, emphasizing the critical role of volunteer fire departments in community safety. The board is expected to deliberate further on this request in upcoming sessions, with the potential for a decision that could enhance emergency response capabilities in Torrington.