A state Department of Community and Economic Development study recommends consolidating the two Bellwood-Antis fire companies, Excelsior Fire Department and Pinecroft Volunteer Fire Company, citing low volunteer numbers, and inefficient operations. While Excelsior is open to the merger, Pinecroft has not yet committed. The study proposes creating a single department with a qualified chief, eventually building a new strategically located station, implementing recruitment and retention programs, and developing a capital replacement plan. The study also noted that volunteerism is dropping, and therefore it’s becoming more difficult to sustain fire services using volunteers alone. It is thought that eventually paid fire services will become the norm across the state.
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