Fire chief reports access concerns; board approves cascade-system maintenance contract

Fire Chief Jeff Smurr told the Sherwood Township Board on Dec. 5 that the department responded to six calls in November and completed two training sessions. He said the cascade breathing-air system is operating and recommended a maintenance and testing contract with Pneu-Matic Engineering, Inc., used by neighboring departments.

Supervisor Aaron Robbins moved to accept the Pneu-Matic Engineering annual maintenance contract at $1,118.58 per year; Trustee Jeff Brott seconded and the board voted to approve the contract. The maintenance contract covers periodic testing and upkeep of the cascade system used by the department.

Smurr also raised safety concerns about a private drive, Chippawa Circle, saying conditions there may prevent the fire department from traveling the drive to reach residents. He said he had spoken with Sheriff Pollack about the problem. Supervisor Robbins and Clerk Marjorie Whitcomb said they were preparing letters to property owners warning that the fire department will not travel the private drive until conditions improve.

The board's approval of the maintenance contract ensures the department's cascade system will receive regular testing and upkeep. The township did not record any vote tallies in the meeting minutes beyond "voted and passed."