After years of debate, discussion and sometimes contentious exchanges, it was announced Thursday representatives from the four volunteer fire companies that serve Bristol Borough jointly formed the new Bristol Borough Fire Association (BBFA).
The mandate of the BBFA is to improve public safety services and create a stronger volunteer fire-rescue service, officials said.
Lower Bucks Source was told last month the merge announcement would be coming any day and today is that day.
The new Bristol Borough Fire Association was formed to improve public safety services and create a stronger volunteer fire-rescue service to serve the municipality and surrounding communities.
“For the past two years, the members took the initiative to develop an organization that will coordinate emergency response for the residents and businesses of Bristol Borough and our neighboring communities,” Steve Reeves, the first president of the association said.
“Over the past 30 years, there has been a decline in volunteer firefighters and EMS providers, not just locally, but
statewide. This new association is the first step in our plan to address those and many other challenges facings today’s fire and emergency services.”
Chief Herb Slack, fire chief for the Borough of Bristol expressed his support for the effort. “As the Bristol Borough Fire Chief, I fully support the efforts of the Fire Service Restructuring Committee formed by the four borough fire companies,” Slack said. “
This new level of cooperation which led to the formation of the association is the mechanism that will move the borough fire service forward to meet current standards and create a more cost-effective and efficient organization.”
Bristol Borough Mayor Joe Saxton added, “I am so proud of the time and effort that the volunteer firefighters put in to make the association happen. Borough officials and I look forward to working with the association in the future.”
Council President Ralph DiGuiseppe said the fire companies realize they’re going to have to pool their resources, but I give all the credit for this getting done to the Mayor.
“To continue to be successful, we need the communities’ support even more now as we implement our plans for the future. If you are interested in serving as a volunteer in your community, please contact us at bbfarecruit@yahoo.com,” Steve Reeves said.
The new Bristol Borough Fire Association is a cooperative effort by Bristol Fire Company No. 1, America Hose, Hook and Ladder Company No. 2, Goodwill Hose Company No. 3, and Bristol Consolidated Volunteer Fire Company. Over 40 active volunteer members respond to over 500 calls for service a year and will protect the same coverage areas focusing on providing service to Bristol Borough and mutual aid to surrounding communities in Bucks County, Pennsylvania.
Recent Comments