Tensions were heightened Monday at a meeting of the Springfield Township trustees. Dozens of citizens, including many from neighboring Spencer Township, attended the meeting to discuss the future of the Spencer Township Fire Department. At 7:42 p.m., the department’s fate was sealed. In a 2-1 vote, Springfield Township trustees voted to take over service of the Spencer Township Fire Department. Andy Glenn and Bob Bethel voted in favor. Marylin Yoder voted against action.
“We’re now indentured servants to Springfield Township,” exclaimed D. Hilarion Smith, a former Spencer Township trustee.
“We’re quite capable of taking care of ourselves,” he added. “We really don’t need you, and most of all, we don’t want you.”
In 1983, a similar scenario played out. The Spencer Township Fire Department dissolved because of multiple outstanding lawsuits, with Springfield Township assuming service. However, that only lasted for one year. In the 33 years since, the Spencer Township Fire Department has maintained uninterrupted service.