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Hope Fire Department adds new firefighter, accepts $49,000 donation and explores radio repeater
Summary
The Select Board confirmed Eben Merrifield as a firefighter, accepted a $49,000 donation for equipment and heard that the department and roads crew are exploring a radio repeater to address communications gaps between the north and south ends of town.
The Hope Select Board confirmed Eben Merrifield as a Town of Hope firefighter at its Aug. 26 meeting. The motion to confirm Merrifield was moved by Charles Weidman, seconded by Crystal Robinson and approved 5-0.
Chief Mike Eaton said he is working with a consultant on fire-department compliance and that the Fire Department and Roads Department are working together to resolve radio and vehicle communications gaps between the north and south sides of town. Deputy Fire Chief Noah Rousseau has been researching installation of a repeater on the Maine Public Broadcasting tower; Chief Eaton said details remain to be worked out but initial indications are promising.
The board also voted unanimously to accept a $49,000 donation from Rick Bresnahan for equipment purchases in the FY26 budget. Chief Eaton said new airpacks have been ordered.
Next steps include documenting the donation in town financial records, adding Merrifield to the department roster and continued staff work to evaluate repeater options and procurement for communications equipment.
