Volunteer fire company asks township for additional training funds as state requirements change

At the May 4 meeting Chase Testerman, speaking for Speedwell Engine & Hose, reported 13 calls in April with an average of 3.84 personnel responding. He told the board that 'firefighters’ essentials training currently costs about $1,000.00 and in July 2026 it will go up to $4,800 per person,' and estimated that training three registered members could cost approximately $12,400. Testerman asked whether the township could provide additional funds from the public‑safety budget to cover the increased training costs.

Board members and others discussed timing and budget constraints: Vice President Phylis Dryden asked whether the request was for the remainder of 2026 or for the 2027 budget cycle. Treasurer Julie Clouse said she did not have exact public‑safety expenditures at hand but that the township had spent about 75% of the fund. Denny Horn suggested current registrants could continue prior training under state rules, while Chase Testerman said the recruits would have to restart the training. No formal additional appropriation was made at the meeting; commissioners discussed fundraising and posting notices for residents.