Community Members Respond to Report to Close, Merge More Than Half of County’s Volunteer Fire Statio
A recent report, commissioned by the Baltimore County Volunteer Firemen’s Association, recommending the closing of three volunteer stations and the merging of 14 others, has stirred concern among emergency personnel and the community residents they serve.
The 206-page report was prepared by Volunteer Firemen’s Insurance Services (VFIS), a Pennsylvania insurance and consulting company for emergency and fire organizations. In addition to the recommendations for closures and mergers, the company suggested the implementation of ambulance fees to patients who are taken to the hospital.
The report, which will spend months in review, recommends closing the Violetville, Woodlawn, and Liberty Road stations. In addition, it recommends the following mergers:
Landsdowne and English Consul; Middle River Fire and Ambulance with Bowley’s Quarters Fire; Hereford Fire and EMS with Butler; Glyndon and Reisterstown; Arcadia and Boring; and the Middleborough, Hyde Park, and Rockaway Beach stations.
According to a report published in the Baltimore Sun, the company estimates that up to $35 million dollars could be collected annually with the ambulance fees. While some volunteer stations in other counties charge insurance companies for their services, none of Baltimore County’s 33 volunteer houses assess a charge.
County Executive Ken Kamenetz has stated publicly that the Volunteer Fire Association does not have the legal authority to force any station in the county to close; nevertheless, the report has stirred concern from many community residents served by their local volunteer stations.
In fact, every citizen I spoke with about the possible closures and mergers stressed the essential role the volunteer stations serve in the community. Whether it is emergency service, safety education and awareness, or camaraderie within and among the various neighborhoods, it seemed unanimous that the value of the volunteers is bigger than any price point highlighted in the report prepared by VFIS.
Bernadette Sahm, of Lutherville, recognizes the yearlong impact the volunteers have, in addition to
answering fire and medical emergencies.
“The Lutherville fire trucks are a welcome sight every single Christmas season. They ride through the neighborhood sounding off the horns, and Santa is sitting up front and center as he waves at everyone,” said Sahm, who believes their involvement within the community unites the area neighborhoods.
“It was fun to witness when our kids were young, but as an adult it always reminds me of home. The simple traditions mean so much to young kids and adults.”
Brooke Greenbaum, of Long Green, praises their local volunteer station for the deep ties to family and tradition.
“The Long Green Volunteer Fire Company is near and dear to my family. My brother was an active member for several years, and my father served as Treasurer for many years. My daughter is currently completing her school requirement of community service helping at the fire hall,” said Greenbaum.
“The men and women who volunteer their time to serve the community are friends and neighbors. Without the local volunteer fire companies, our communities would be greatly underserved. They play a vital role in filling the many gaps not covered by paid stations. Many members are paid firefighters and EMT’s who also serve in volunteer companies. The amount of hard work and commitment is staggering.”
According to Greenbaum, the members of the Long Green company hold several fundraising events throughout the year (as do the other volunteer stations). In addition, they now run the concession stand at Hydes Field during sporting events.
“This has been a win-win situation for everyone,” said Greenbaum.
Pat France is the vice president of Towson Area Citizens On Patrol (TACOP), which is a volunteer organization with 25 neighborhoods with active Citizens On Patrol programs. Every August, TACOP has a National Night Out Event to recognize the local services protecting, educating, and serving the 25 neighborhoods throughout Towson.
“Providence Volunteer Fire Company helps us out by sending two engines to be in the police-escorted motorcade every year. They sound their sirens and put a banner on the sides of their vehicles so people see this is a Citizens On Patrol event,” said France. “Providence Volunteer Fire Company is happy to help us every year. They are just the best.”
Tracey Green Daniels, of Towson, is just one of many residents served by the Providence Volunteer Fire Company who expressed heartfelt appreciation for the care and respect they showed her family on multiple occasions.
In January 2010, Daniels’ 2-year-old daughter had a febrile seizure, and Providence was the first to arrive. “While waiting for the county paramedics,” said Daniels, “members from Providence took great care of her -- and us.”
On the way to the hospital, Daniels’ daughter, Sara, went into respiratory arrest and spent several hours at the hospital.
“When we finally left the hospital, in the middle of the night,” said Daniels, “we were surprised to learn that Providence had remained at GBMC as well, the entire time, until they knew we were alright. We have stayed friends with them.”
Three years later, when Sara turned 5, Providence played a special role in her birthday celebrations. Then, just months later, Providence once again responded to the Daniels’ home, but this time for a fire in their house.
“They went above and beyond to help my children salvage some of their most prized possessions. They have been amazing.”
Brett Smith, of Cockeysville, experienced the same kind of care from Cockeysville’s volunteers when he suffered a 10-foot fall at the county landfill and broke his femur and wrist.
“It was bad,” said Smith. “The Cockeysville Volunteer Fire Company pulled me out and took me to the hospital. It didn't cost me a dime for the emergency response but you can bet that I made a donation. I'm very grateful to those men and women.”
If you have a story that you would like to share in our follow-up to this article, please contact Rus directly at rus@bcobreakingnews.com. We will continue to share your testimonies regarding the impact your volunteer stations have had on you and your neighbors.