Tonawanda council tables agreements with volunteer fire companies amid accountability concerns

The Tonawanda Common Council voted Tuesday to table several agreements with local volunteer fire companies after councilmembers raised concerns about accountability, past instances of missing funds and an apparent lack of cooperation with police investigators.

During informal discussion, members questioned whether startup funding for volunteer companies — described in the draft agreements as a $7,500 buy-in — would be accompanied by sufficient financial reporting and receipts. One councilmember referenced prior problems and an alleged case involving a large sum, saying the city must protect taxpayer dollars.

The city attorney said he could not produce a written police report at the meeting because the department had not received cooperation from the company in question. Based on that and the call for further documentation, Councilman Sheasley moved to table Resolution 6; the motion was seconded and passed on a roll call vote. The council then formally confirmed that Resolutions 6, 7, 8 and 9 concerning agreements with National Hose, Delaware Hose, Niagara Hose and Union Houghton Ladder were tabled.

Council supporters of oversight noted that other departments are required to submit receipts and financial statements before being reimbursed and said the same standard should apply to volunteer organizations receiving city funds. Representatives who spoke in favor of accountability said the change would preserve valuable volunteer services while adding transparency.

What’s next: Council asked for a written report from the police department (or additional cooperation from the volunteer companies) and for clearer financial statements or receipts before taking up the agreements again.