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College president leads fire truck drive
So, when she heard that the fire department's fleet of trucks was in poor shape and the city's finances were tight, Haring-Smith offered to lend her services and lead a campaign to help raise money to purchase a new $750,000 Quint truck.
"Obviously, the city doesn't have that kind of money," said Haring-Smith. "And over the past two months, three of the fire trucks have broken down, and one or more is regularly down for repairs."
Subsequently, Haring-Smith, the Washington County Community Foundation and other businesses and individuals have stepped in and are running a fundraising campaign for the purchase of a new truck that has both a pumper and a 100-foot ladder.
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It's with this in mind that a reception will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. tonight in the Rossin Campus Center Ballroom at W&J to thank those who already have contributed and welcome those who are considering making a donation.
Fire Chief Linn Brookman will attend the reception to discuss the new truck. In addition, a similar truck will be on display.
"It's wonderful that the community is pulling together for this," said Brookman.
According to the chief, the city has four trucks dating from 1987 to 1999. "They're pretty old," he said.
Mayor Sonny Spossey said City Council recently decided to allot $100,000 in Community Development Block Grant money for the purchase of a new truck.
Spossey said the city didn't have the money to completely fund the purchase. But it could come up with grant money to help out with the community effort.
"It's really such a positive statement to the entire community that others are stepping up to help," he said.
Both Spossey and Brookman commended Haring-Smith for initiating the campaign.
"If she didn't get involved, others would not have joined in," Spossey said.
Haring-Smith said public safety is not only important for the college but for the entire community.
"Having unreliable fire vehicles puts our entire community and our firefighters in danger," she said.
Last year, the college contributed $20,000 to the fire department for the purchase of new uniforms.
fire truck : 10/15/2009
bravo, a united community/college effort!
: 10/15/2009
Oh for once the city finally gives the college its dues, but the majority of the time they complain about the college. Guess it is a good thing after all the college is there.
Chain of Command : 10/15/2009
Why is Mayor Spossey speaking on this issue. This deals with the fire department and thus, should fall under Councilman Blackhurst's purview. Mayor, dont always try so hard to place your name in the media.
The Mayor : 10/15/2009
Chain of Commad did you ever think that maybe the Mayor was asked to speak on this issue? Remeber he is the Mayor things do really get by him w/o him being asked about them.
