This is a wrap!
As 2021 draws to a close, the Elk Volunteer Fire Department has wrapped up an extensive “to do” list for the year, including a major renovation of the Main Fire Building, a building it shares with the Greenwood Community Center. After I wrote about the construction portion of the project in early September, which was led by local contractor Craig Mitchell, I was able to speak to Fire Captain Tony Cook about the project’s origin story last week. The concept of the project came from the necessity of having more space. The cramped quarters included the firetruck, ambulance bays, and a small office, so in 2016 Tony, a retired contractor himself, started making the initial plans. Because of the leaching field in the building’s backyard, plans had to be limited to an extension of only seven feet on the east side of the building, making the design long (56 feet) and narrow. One big hurdle in the project was its engineering – introduce Lee Welty, a local engineer (and a good friend of Tony’s). Lee is also familiar with the operations of volunteer fire departments as he is a member of the Albion-Little River District Fire Protection Board. As has often happened with the best laid plans, the fire department’s priority list suddenly shifted, and the main firehouse was added until the Greenwood Ridge Space Station was completed opposite Fashauer’s old house. Therefore, the green light for this project was not given until late 2020, and the ground was broken in early 2021.
Tony has over 100 hours in project planning and paperwork permitting. Generously, both he and his guardian offered their professional services free of charge to the fire department. I had a chance to do an add review on Sunday, which is a huge improvement. Besides the turnout gear extractor space and utility sink, there’s a small hand sink and massive built-in cabinets made of maple by local cabinetmaker (and his chief assistant) Bob Asco. These lockers will provide sufficient space for gear, radios, and ambulance supplies. The office space has also been nicely enlarged (and heated), a huge improvement from the small space in which volunteers will gather for their regular meetings. As always, the Elk Volunteer Fire Department is looking for volunteers. Please contact Fire Chief Bob Mattson at 877-3444. What a great way to start the new year by becoming a volunteer firefighter for your community!