It was standing room only as friends, family and neighbors attended last week’s City Council meeting in Fairfield on Tuesday, June 13, 2017.
The burning question: Why air packs for the Fairfield Volunteer Fire Department — a $152,000 project green lighted by Council 15 weeks ago — had not been delivered upon.
“Actions speak louder than words. Your actions show me nothing,” stated Assistant Fire Chief Jeffery Price, reading a previously written statement.
Price went on to say that he had lost respect for members of the council, though he quickly stated that this did not apply to newly elected officials.
“Across the nation, volunteer fire departments are being treated poorly. I hate to say, I’m seeing it here,” continued Asst. Chief Price.
He went on to remark that, if the Council refused to do as they agreed, there will be fewer volunteers.
“We are not here to bash the Council,” stated Fairfield firefighter Laney Newman. “We are appreciative of all you do. You are a part of our team.”
Newman mentioned the oath of office, taken by both Council members and volunteer fire fighters, to do their “absolute best to protect the community.” He stressed the need for the air pack equipment, to allow the Fire Department to fulfill their duties in a safe manner.
Fire Chief Matt Foree began his remarks with an apology for previous remarks to Council. “They were knee-jerk reactions,” he said.
“As Chief, my main responsibility is protection of these fire fighters,” continued Chief Foree. “It I can’t keep these guys safe, I can’t keep anybody safe.”
Foree assured the Council and community that the Fairfield Fire Department would continue responding to calls. However, he stressed that, when old air packs became unusable, fire fighters would be required to spray down a structure from outside.
In this scenario, the Fire Department would have to wait for mutual aid from Dew VFD or Teague VFD, who currently have updated air packs for their members, before entering a burning structure.
“Without those air packs, the Department cannot effectively do their job.
Following the meeting, 18 air packs were ordered put on order the morning of June 14, 2017. According to City Administrator Jeff Looney, the equipment is expected to arrive in three months.
In other business, Council approved agreement with landowner David Steward to relocate at 4-inch sewer force main.
Also approved is the appointment of Misty Richardson (left) as City Secretary. Her previous position as Admin. Assistant will be posted.
Addressing Council during the Citizens Forum was Steve Grecu and his wife, Danielle, who partner with Texas Ramp Project to build ADA compliant ramps for those in need.
According to Grecu, three referrals in Fairfield are currently awaiting funding. These projects average $700 for each ramp.
The City of Fairfield has been invited to join the effort.
For more information, contact First United Methodist Church of Fairfield at 903-389-2225.
Fairfield City Council is conducting a Workshop this week on Tuesday, June 20, 2017. Agenda items include discussion with attorney in Executive Session related to rules and regulations and information on annexation laws.
