Pioneer Mayor Edward Kidston released a statement to village residents tonight addressing the recent departure of multiple members from the Pioneer Fire Department.
In a two-page letter posted to the Pioneer community social media page, Kidston acknowledged that residents have been “inundated with opinions and comments about emergency services” in the village but assured them they remain protected.
“Simply put, you remain protected,” Kidston wrote.
The mayor’s letter explained that Williams County currently has an EMS unit and a 24/7 first responder unit, and that medical needs of village residents will be responded to from one or both units. For fire-related emergencies, the PFD will continue to be dispatched as it always has, with the department currently operating with three certified members. If additional personnel are needed, neighboring departments will be called to assist.
Kidston included a six-month call log showing the PFD responded to a total of 10 calls inside the village from November through April, handling incidents including gas leaks, fire alarms, lift assists, a car fire, a cooking fire, and a chemical spill. The mayor noted that over half of those calls were handled by a crew of four or fewer.
“A large portion of our members chose brotherhood over service to our community,” Kidston wrote. “This decision has certainly placed us all in a difficult position. Their departure was immediate, without notice, and as elected officials we need to ensure the safety of our citizens.”
Kidston said the village intends to rebuild the department’s numbers but acknowledged it will not happen overnight. He thanked the volunteers who stayed and said the village would keep residents informed as the situation develops.
“Meanwhile, if you have an emergency, please call 911,” the letter concluded.
