Due to ongoing administrative issues at the Fairview Volunteer Fire Department, a public informational meeting will be held next week to discuss a proposed merger with Pembroke Volunteer Fire Department.
There is a great deal of concern in the Fairview community about the possible merger and what the future of the fire department will be if the merger happens. There is growing opposition to the plan to merge Fairview with the Pembroke Fire Department
Pembroke Fire Chief Nick Belair tells the News Edge about a month ago the Fairview Fire Department approached them about a merger.
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He says the goal of the merger is to work toward lowering the community’s ISO rating.
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Fairview Fire Department Board Chairman Mike Tino-Cunniffe says there are mixed emotions about the merger in the Fairview community, but he feels it will be beneficial.
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Cunniffe adds he understands the emotional concerns but the bottom line it’s about the safety of the community.
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Former fire chief Paul VanGotum tells the News Edge there is little support in the community for the merger.
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He says one of his main concerns is the merger will cause an increase in homeowners insurance rates.
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VanGotum adds they work hard to get the improved ISO rating and the potential merger could jeopardize that.
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In addition, he questions the concern over the finances of the Fairview Fire Department.
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Community member Matthew Ballard tells us there is a community meeting set for Tuesday night at 6:30 at the Fairview fire station. In addition, the informational meeting is scheduled for Thursday evening, June 13, at 7:00 at the Fairview fire station.
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