Pennsylvania DCED Assists Fire Company Consolidation in Chester County

News provided by

Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development

Sep 07, 2012, 12:06 ET

HARRISBURG, Pa., Sept. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- With technical assistance from state government, the Atglen, Parkesburg, and Pomeroy fire companies in Chester County will consolidate operations by early 2013 to improve services and reduce costs to taxpayers. It will be known as the Keystone Valley Fire Department.

"Consolidation is a viable option for fire companies that are having difficulties meeting budgets and recruiting volunteers," said Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary C. Alan Walker. "Today's announcement will result in cost-saving efficiencies and a stronger base of more than 70 volunteers."

The newly unified department will receive integrated training and operational procedures to better serve the region. It will provide a more-coordinated operation at a reduced cost to Highland, West Sadsbury and Sadsbury townships, and Parkesburg borough in Chester County.

"It has become clear that the combined efforts of the Parkesburg, Pomeroy and Atglen fire departments will supply a level of service to the citizens of this region that can be the template for future consolidations around the state," said West Sadsbury Township supervisor Frank Haas.

After combining vehicles and equipment inventories, the new company will have a total of 18 available apparatus for service. The consolidation of resources will save Keystone Valley more than $188,000 annually and produce more than $1.8 million in long-term savings. Consolidating services will allow the unified company to improve its emergency response time to the surrounding communities.

"The consolidation was made possible by the coordinated efforts of the fire companies and the municipalities to achieve one goal: to enhance and ensure consistent and efficient emergency services in the area served by Keystone Valley Fire Company," said Sadsbury Township supervisor Stephanie Silvernail.

The Governor's Center for Local Government Services (GCLGS), housed within DCED, aided with the consolidation. GCLGS provides technical resources and assistance for companies considering merger, consolidation, regional efforts and also serves as a resource for local government officials, developers, and citizens interested in planning to improve, grow and enhance communities.

To learn more about the GCLGS and other DCED programs, visit www.newPA.com or call 1-866-466-3972.

Media Contact: Edward Jordan, 717-783-1132

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development