Manitowoc Fire Chief Todd Blaser
Manitowoc’s fire chief says his department would be ready to help Manitowoc Rapids if a new fire contract deal is approved.
Fire Chief Todd Blaser spoke with Seehafer News following the town meeting in Manitowoc Rapids with residents not supporting a new fire contract deal with the Manitowoc Fire Department.
Residents said they don’t want to see Rockwood and Silver Creek fire stations shut down from the deal or believed that Manitowoc fire would provide enough water in a major emergency.
Blaser was at the meeting: “I heard damaging effects of pride in misinformation taken precedents over data-driven practices.”
Blaser explained that the town of Manitowoc Rapids approached Manitowoc asking if they would provide fire protection to two specific areas near city limits.
He says the city has resources available with enough staff.
Blaser responded to the water comments saying town residents are correct about only having 750 gallons in a truck available, however: “We have the ability of response times,” he explained.
“Fire grows every minute it doubles in size. You put that factor in there and I don’t want to say it’s a wash because it is a valid point. We are going to need the resources of surrounding communities to bring that water for us but to say we’re not capable of doing it really isn’t a fair judgement of people coming and asking the questions of what we can do and what we can’t do.”
Blaser says taxes wouldn’t go up for Manitowoc residents either, and the city wouldn’t have to pay anything extra.
Even with the negativity toward the deal from residents, the Manitowoc fire chief wants it to go through.
“You know, just listening at some of the conversation of what thought we can’t do and honesty what we can do and what we do bring to the table, I definitely think it’s a good opportunity for both the township and the city of Manitowoc,” Blaser stated.
The Town of Manitowoc Rapids board didn’t vote on the issue but did talk about contract numbers in closed session Wednesday (September 11th).
Town Chairman Josh Stradal said the new fire department contract would save the town $100,000 over five years.
There will be an informational meeting in the town next Wednesday (September 18th) from 6:00 to 7:00 pm.
