The town is seeking voters’ approval Tuesday to raise the annual contribution for its volunteer firefighters service program to $1,200 per firefighter as a way of helping the fire departments retain members.
The town created its “Length of Service Award Program” in 1996 when it was first permitted by the state which provides a lump-sum payment to a volunteer firefighter when they reach a certain age and years of service. “They provide a lot of services to the town. This is one of the ways we can be helpful,” Supervisor Phil Herrington said.
The town views the program as a way of retaining experienced volunteer firefighters at Brunswick Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 (Sycaway), Center Brunswick Volunteer Fire Company and the Mountain View Fire District.
State legislation took effect last December allowing the annual payment to increase to $1,200 from $700 per firefighter.