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Fire chief outlines recruitment push and Eastside station progress; deputy reports engine repairs
Summary
Fire Chief Tripp told the board Torrington has four fire vacancies after a Nov. 22 departure, is actively recruiting (application window through Dec. 9) and is moving forward on Eastside station work; the deputy chief said Engine 5 and Engine 2 are awaiting parts with an optimistic return by Christmas.
Fire Chief Tripp told the Board of Public Safety on Dec. 3 that the department is working to fill four vacancies after a firefighter left Nov. 22 for Bristol and that recruitment remains competitive.
Chief Tripp said an application process is open until Dec. 9 and that he planned to attend a Dec. 5 academy graduation to recruit new candidates. He highlighted the 'Heroes to Heroes' veteran program as a recruitment pathway and said the department currently has three applicants he judged qualified out of 12. "It's a very competitive process because they're already trained," Tripp said.
On facilities, Tripp said the Eastside Firehouse project is moving forward: he met with public works and the WPCA about sewer connections at the Muscarello's site and said Jim Potter will be involved on the building committee. He told the board he expects firm manpower and station cost numbers by Jan. 8 to inform next year’s budget.
Deputy Chief gave an apparatus update: Engine 5 is awaiting manufacturer‑made pulleys for the aerial ladder and Engine 2 requires a seal kit being shipped from Florida. "I'm still optimistic that we'll see it for Christmas," the deputy chief said of the repaired trucks.
Commissioners thanked outgoing members and welcomed newly seated officials; Commissioner Young praised the fire chief’s improved communication and said he welcomes weekly updates.
