Full-Time Baxter Firefighters Having Positive Impact

Almost two months after Baxter’s first-ever full-time firefighters began work, and their impact has been extremely positive.

That’s according to Fire Chief Matthew White. The city approved three full-time firefighters in this year’s budget.

“We’ve seen tremendous improvement,” White said. “The response times have been cut down, we’re looking for a better outcome in the future and hopefully the citizens will notice that and we’ll be able to provide better response for them.”

White said there have only been minor hiccups. He said the main issue is creating employee policies for the full-time firefighters, which is currently being worked on.

White said the city hired experienced firefighters to serve as the full-time crew. He said they will work hand-in-hand with the city’s part-time and volunteer firefighters as well.

White said getting full-time firefighters has been a goal of his since he became chief in 2015. He said seeing it become a reality is extremely gratifying.

“It is a huge step for a town like Baxter to be able to provide this,” White said. “And it’s going to be a great benefit for the citizens and the community around us.”