When you’re Fire Chief there are some things you can’t help but to notice.
“This station we are standing in was built in the 1970’s…we’re having some insulation issues and some leaks. We just resealed the ceiling,” mentioned Chief Billy Dillon, Howe Springs Fire Department.
It’s a laundry list of problems that include small restrooms, a narrow staircase that doesn’t meet ADA regulations and cramped office space.
“This office is actually used by about five people,” Chief Dillon added.
While it’s an inconvenience for the Howe Springs Fire Department, they are looking forward to turning a new page.
“All the members are excited, several people in the community are excited,” he explained.
It’s the kind of excitement when plans for a new fire station become a reality.
“We want to open this new station have a place where the members can stay, lessen our response time at night and also give us a nicer place for people to come visit us,” Dillon said.
“Safety’s first and it’s known fact that time is of the essence,” added Sam Brockington, Florence County’s Fire and Rescue Coordinator.
Thanks to Florence County’s second penny sales tax, $18 million will go towards 7 more stations.
“[They’re] strategically located throughout Florence County to where all properties will be within five road traveled miles of a fire station,” Brockington explained.
The $18 million from the penny sales tax will also go towards 8 new pumper and 6 new tanker trucks remodel two stations and other projects.
Howe Springs looks to break ground this summer.
