Smithville FD Request For Third Paid Position Not Included In Budget

Smithville Fire Chief Charlie Parker’s request for a second full-time fire fighter has been denied for next fiscal year.

Parker said he understands that sometimes other funding issues take precedence.

“I think that is in life,” Parker said. “We don’t always get what we want or ask for, but we have been very fortunate. The mayor and city council has always worked with us the fire department very well.”

Parker said in his mind, the department needs a bare minimum of two fire fighters to effectively provide services. Parker said he plans to bring the matter back to the city next year.

“We’re just looking at the bare minimum of two when you go out to do something,” Parker said. “To help with testing issues and maintenance issues and to be able to respond to motor vehicle accidents that we do. If we had a few people on staff that would make that easier.”

Parker said a full-time fire fighter is something he asks for every year. Parker said many volunteers having other full-time jobs can limit the response during the day.

The Smithville Fire Department has two paid positions, Parker as the chief and fire fighter Dalton Roberts.