Pennsylvania DCED Helps Greenmount, Barlow Fire Companies Consolidate in Adams County

HARRISBURG, Pa., March 7, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- With technical assistance from state government, the Greenmount and Barlow fire companies in Adams County will consolidate operations into a single company by year-end to improve services and realize significant cost savings.

"Due to economic conditions, fire companies are finding it increasingly difficult to raise the required funds and attract volunteers," said Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary C. Alan Walker. "This consolidation enables both fire companies to better manage the pool of local volunteers. The new company will provide improved coverage to the community, while being more cost effective."

"A merger will benefit both companies through cost reductions and eliminating duplicated equipment and additional resources," said Barlow Fire Company President James Brown.

"Unified training and operational guidelines, elimination of duplicate fund raisers and more efficient use of volunteers, all aspects from fire ground operations to training are paramount for the active members to work hard to perform essential public services," added Greenmount Fire Company President Lance Ohler.

With a total of 68 volunteers, the consolidated company will have a more coordinated operation to efficiently respond to emergency calls. The Greemount and Barlow Fire Company will receive unified training and operational procedures, serving Cumberland, Freedom, and Mount Joy townships in Adams County and will offer mutual aid to nearby towns in the state of Maryland.

The Governor's Center for Local Government Services (GCLGS), housed within the Department of Community and Economic Development, assisted the two companies with the consolidation. GCLGS provides technical resources and assistance for companies considering consolidation and also serves as a resource for local government officials, developers, and citizens interested in planning to improve, grow and enhance communities.

To learn more about the GCLGS and other DCED programs, visit newPA.com or call 1-866-466-3972.

Media Contact: Edward Jordan, 717-783-1132

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development