Dryden unified fire district approved, but questions remain

The Town of Dryden and the villages of Dryden and Freeville approved the creation of a joint fire district in October. However, some residents are calling for more information and an opportunity to vote on the proposal before it takes effect. The three municipalities voted to establish the district following an Oct. 15 joint public hearing. The resolution consolidates the business operations of three area fire departments under a new governing body, composed of five fire commissioners, with its own taxing authority. The district would encompass the Neptune Hose Company No. 1 of Dryden, the W.B. Strong Fire Company of Freeville and the Varna Volunteer Fire Company. Officials have said the change will allow departments to better coordinate spending and long-term planning while maintaining their individual identities and services. It would cover the participating municipalities’ fire protection areas, which excludes the portion of the town already served by the McLean Fire District.

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