By Alyssa Johnston
The Times Record News
WICHITA FALLS, Texas — Wichita Falls City Council members passed a measure Tuesday morning that will allow volunteer firefighters to buy fuel from the city.
Because of the extent of fires this year, the need for volunteers’ services has never been greater, according to staff comments. Approval of the resolution authorizes an interlocal agreement with the volunteer fire departments for the sale of the city’s fuel.
City, county regional and state assets have come together regularly to fight the fires devastating the region, and the sale of city fuel to the volunteer departments will reduce some cost.
John Burrus, director of aviation, traffic and transportation, said there will be a 15-cent per gallon markup on the fuel above the wholesale purchase to cover expenses and maintenance, but will keep the fuel at a money-saving cost to the firefighters.
The volunteer fire departments will not be required to buy fuel from the city. The measure merely gives them the option, providing 24-hour access to the pumps.
One stipulation of the agreement notes that firefighters may use the city pumpsonlyforfirefighting vehicles and equipment, not personal vehicles.
Burrus said volunteer fire departments have been struggling for funds through the busy wildfire season and extreme drought conditions, and the city hopes this will save the departments some money.
Copyright 2011 Wichita Falls Times Record News
All Rights Reserved