Kevin McNulty

Tue, Jul 24, 2012 : 4:29 a.m.

Laura, there is still an ongoing discussion to consolidate the Dexter Area Fire Department with the Scio Township FD. The new fire department sub station proposal is to construct a permanent building to replace a temporary sub station opened a few years ago. That project was done as a temporary project and allows the FD to use the building at the Multi Lake Water and Sewer Authority building. Even though the DAFD is a multi-community public service, each municipality can construct a station in its jurisdiction. That facility is sub standard (as a typical fire station) and falls far short of the proper facility the fire fighters need. After that substation was staffed, statistics were recorded and it was found that fire department response to various areas of the township were significantly improved. A new station will be situated in a central area, displayed in the photo of the Chelsea Update. That building is at the corner of N. Territorial and Dexter Townhall Rd. Its central location and proximity to two major E/W and N/S roads allows quicker response to the central and west side of the township. Research was done on this project by the Dexter Township Public Safety Advisory committee. I am a member of that committee and our goal was to propose a structure that is more functional than aesthetic, fits the needs of the FD, and built for as reasonable a price as practical. As noted in the Update article, were very fortunate to have fire fighters assist us during the research process, their input was very valuable. The March Tornado proved the value of the second station, as downed trees on Dexter Pinckney Road blocked the fire trucks from the station in the Village. Responding trucks from the sub station at the MLWS property were able to quickly respond from the north. The PSAC meets regularly and if you have questions, please come to a meeting. There is time allotted for public comments. Call the Township office for meeting dates and times.