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Residents urge trustees to preserve fire staffing and equipment as township plans levy
Summary
Several residents told the Brimfield trustees the fire department needs sustained funding amid growing development, noting the department currently has 22 firefighters and urging trustees to prioritize staffing, training and rapid response rather than rely on repeated shortfalls. Commenters called for clearer levy information and public outreach before the November vote.
Multiple residents addressed the trustees during public comment on July 27, urging the board to ensure the fire department retains staffing, equipment and training as the township seeks new funding. Dick Messner warned that "the department currently has 22 well‑trained firefighters" and said the opening of nursing homes, a VA hospital, new apartment complexes and planned light industrial facilities will increase demand on fire and EMS services; he urged the board to maintain rapid response capabilities.
Jerry Taylor, a former volunteer firefighter, said the department cannot effectively operate with current staffing levels or outdated funding and warned that reductions in staffing and inspections could negatively affect emergency response times during major incidents or medical emergencies. Several commenters, including Bill Knights and Robert Zacher, asked the trustees to provide clearer information on the proposed levy and to publish call volume and service statistics so residents can make an informed decision at the ballot box.
