Paxank Fire Company asks Harrisburg council to formalize mutual‑aid through memorandum of understanding

Gavin Ford, president of Paxank Fire Company No. 1, told Harrisburg City Council the volunteer company has an established mutual‑aid relationship with the city but is now seeking formal recognition through an agreement or memorandum of understanding.

Ford said Paxank has served the area for decades and currently provides mutual‑aid assistance to the city and surrounding municipalities. He told council the borough had signed a contract with another township in 2022, but Paxank continued to provide mutual‑aid when requested. Ford asked the council to consider entering an MOU that would formalize the relationship "so we can continue operating, such as the city of Harrisburg," and said the company would be willing to cover the legal costs associated with drafting an agreement.

Why it matters: a formal MOU could streamline requests for volunteer mutual‑aid resources on large incidents and clarify the scope of responsibilities and any cost or liability treatment. Ford said Paxank’s services are provided by volunteers and would not necessarily carry an ongoing fee, though he acknowledged legal review could have a cost.

Council response: Council members thanked Ford and said they would review the draft he provided and discuss the matter further; there was no vote. Fire bureau leadership was present earlier in the meeting and has indicated operational coordination with Paxank in the past.

Ending: Ford left council with a draft and asked the city to consider an MOU; council agreed to review the paperwork and follow up.