Years of discussions and negotiations between two fire companies are now reaching completion.
On Tuesday, Aug. 13, by a majority vote from the company’s members, Sassamansville Fire Company made the decision to merge with New Hanover Township Fire Company to form New Hanover Township Volunteer Fire and Rescue Services.
‘We’ve agreed to merge and we will continue to work on details,’ said Sassamansville Fire Chief Ray Strickland. ‘It’s been a long hard road.’ He continued to note that the various ongoing issues have been resolved and now both companies are in the early stages of proceeding with the merge. ‘I’m confident that the township will work with us.’
This decision was made following New Hanover Township’s Board of Supervisors meeting on Monday, Aug. 12, during which the supervisors authorized the motion to release half of the Sassamansville Fire Company’s remaining fire tax for 2012, in the amount of $10,673, to Sassamansville Fire Company.
At the June 10 township meeting, Strickland had made the request for funding and re-recognition of the fire company. During that time it was made clear that Sassamansvillle had no means to purchase equipment on its own.
The fire company will remain Sassamansville Fire Company Legacy Station and will continue to serve the residents of New Hanover Township.
