Fire Chief Bob Jepson approached the joint fire board — comprised of representatives from the city of Reading and Reading Township — in January with concerns about 1132′s ability to pass mandated testing and asked the board to consider purchasing a used truck. Jepson noted the department’s response volume and opined the department did not need a new truck.  

After reviewing finances, the board determined they would ultimately need an additional $50,000 split between the city and township. The remaining funds would come from the department’s savings. Jepson said he believed the 2000 KME Custom Pumper had around 15 years left of “effective use” left.

The renovation project will cost about $750,000. The council meeting will take place on Monday at 6 p.m. in Summerville. According to the Dorchester County spokesperson, the county currently operates an EMS station in Harleyville on Dotson Street.

The EMS station does not have a bay for the ambulance because it was previously a residential structure. County officials say the structure is also inadequate for housing crews due to the age of building and the residential configuration.

Instead, fire hoses were uncoupled at the entrance of the building, that replaces a 50-year-old facility which was closed temporarily because of mold in 2016.  

“Just like in your homes, relationships are forged here – and in your businesses,” said Fire Chief Ginny Cranor. “People of different ranks and responsibilities come together to achieve a bigger goal. Here, that goal is service.”  

For Pensacola Mayor Grover Robinson, the new fire station is personal, having grown up in what’s now the new facility’s service area. He also touched on his recent opportunity to train with firefighters.