9358-R3_LGP_MechanicFalls_2024AnnualReport

Fire and Rescue Chief I hope the winter treated you all well - it was a cold one, for sure, but the warm weather is here and we’ll take it! The nicer weather brings us right into budget season and I hope you’ll come out to vote in June to show your support. This year’s budget reflects the needs of the department without major increases. However, one of the increases included a new software program for creating local and state fire reports needed for accountability needs and they do not come cheap, especially since there were not a lot of vendors willing to work with a small department. The one we chose has had quite a learning curve, but we’re making do. The other items in the budget are for normal maintenance of equipment and payroll. The department has been busy with calls this year. We are still averaging about 350 calls, mostly rescue calls with the rest of the calls involving grass fires, odor investigations, unattended fires, big one structure fires, car crashes or miscellaneous help. We finally have the new Engine 2 fire truck in service, and we are all very appreciative of you all getting it for us so that we can protect you. Department membership has had some young blood and future juniors joining, all who are ready and willing to learn, with the graying of the fire service many departments in the state are now facing. I just want to say that I am proud to serve alongside these individuals for the protection of Mechanic Falls, and I appreciate all the citizens for their support. We also would not be able to do this without the help of our surrounding Mutual Aid departments as well as the other Mechanic Falls departments. Thank you to Public Works, the Police Department, Water Department, Sanitary District, Transfer Station, and the Town Office.

Please be careful out there and take care. If you need us – we’re only a call away!

Fred C. Sturtevant III

30