A group of Dryden residents want to see volunteer firefighters back on the job.
Petitions are now out calling for the City to return to the negotiating table with the Dryden Firefighters Association.
Pam Miller believes the stalemate between the two can be corrected, if the parties involved just “park their ego’s and start fresh”.
Miller says concerned citizens believe the loss of the volunteer fire department has put Dryden residents and their property at risk.
She also cites wasted tax dollars. Miller says it’s time that Council be held accountable, noting that all signatures will be presented to elected officials.
She believes the new proposed models aren’t “reasonable, practical or cost-effective”.
Last week, Fire Chief Ryan Murrell presented four potential options, with the City closing applications for paid, on-call volunteers.
Some 30-applications were received, however no final decision has been made by Council.
Model #3 (Paid on Call Volunteers)
Full cost of department: $946,899
Cost per Household: $267.41
Cost per Capita: $122.20
% of Budget: 3.38%
Difference from 2018 Budget: $138,392
Cost per Household Increase: $39.08
Funding options: Savings within City’s overall budget, Using Reserves, Estimated Tax Increase 0.98%
For mor information and to hear from Pam Miller, click the audio link below.
