Community expresses concern over potential fire department merger

ALPENA, Mich. — The community expressed how they feel about a potential merger between the Alpena Township and City fire departments.  Frustration filled the room Tuesday night at the Alpena Township Board of Trustees meeting.

Residents and firemen expressed their concerns about response time with the Alpena Township Fire Department as a merger of the township and city fire departments could mean loss of employment for current staff and increased response time.

Many residents who rely on the help of the township want the two agencies to remain separate as the township fire department is the first to respond to many emergencies.

Charter Township Supervisor, Nathan Skibbe,  said after last nights public information session, they’ve listened to the citizens and are considering valid concerns.

Skibbe also addressed the concerns from the community regarding a lack of transparency.

The board has not reached a decision on a possible merger and they do not have a timeline as to when.