The Beecher Fire Protection District Board of Trustees made several key decisions at its June 26 meeting, highlighted by the promotion of three members to leadership positions and the approval of a significant station improvement project. The board unanimously appointed Carm Welsh, Marci DuBois, and Bryce Budimir to the rank of Lieutenant/Paramedic, filling crucial operational roles. More details on these promotions are available in our full story.

In another major action, trustees awarded a $13,895 contract to the company Tadpole for a comprehensive landscaping project at the fire station. Read more about this investment in our separate article. The board also addressed staffing, surplus equipment, and policy updates, which are summarized below.

Fire District Surpluses Equipment and Vehicle
The board declared a set of out-of-service Genesis hydraulic rescue tools and a 2015 Black Ford F150 pickup truck as surplus property. This official designation allows the district to sell, auction, or otherwise dispose of the outdated equipment, which has been replaced by newer models. Both motions to declare the items surplus passed with unanimous 5-0 votes.

Staffing Update and New Hires
The Personnel Committee reported that a full-time/part-time position on the “Black shift” would be filled as of July 1. Additionally, the district has recently welcomed new staff, including one part-time Firefighter/EMT and two part-time Firefighter/Paramedics who have started their duties. The report also noted that four recent candidates successfully passed their Board of Fire Commissioners exam.

Chief Highlights Community Programs and Grants
In his non-discussion report, Fire Chief Joe Falaschetti provided updates on several community outreach initiatives, including the Barn Safety Program, Junior Fire Academy, and Citizen Fire Academy. He also noted progress on grant applications, including one to the Office of the State Fire Marshal for small tools and another to the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant program for cardiac monitors.

Donation to Beecher Lions Club
As part of its unfinished business, the board voted unanimously to donate $120 and a department blanket to the Beecher Lions Club for its golf outing. The motion demonstrated the district’s continued support for local community organizations and their fundraising events.

Board Approves Revised Policy Manual
Trustees voted 5-0 to approve a revised 100 series policy manual. The motion, made by Trustee Dave Kolosh and seconded by Trustee Bruce Becker, ensures that the district’s foundational administrative policies are up to date with current practices and regulations.

Routine Business Approved
The board unanimously approved the treasurer’s report for May, the payment of bills for June, and the minutes from its May 29 regular and closed session meetings. All five trustees were present for the votes. The board entered a brief closed session during the meeting but took no action.