May 01, 2025 - Ross Township, PA
Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis joined State Fire Commissioner Thomas Cook and local officials at Berkeley Hills Fire Company to spotlight the success of its live-in firefighter program and discuss how Governor Josh Shapiro's 2025-26 budget proposal supports initiatives to strengthen Pennsylvania's fire service. Berkeley Hills Fire Company's recent increased focus on their successful live-in program is a powerful example of how volunteer fire departments are adapting to meet evolving staffing challenges. The program offers housing accommodations for qualified firefighters in exchange for dedicated service-an approach that can help to sustain emergency response coverage, reduce response times, and develop and retain the next generation of fire service professionals. "Berkeley Hills Fire Company's success with their live-in program is a shining example of the creativity and dedication that it takes to get results. While their story is not unique, many other fire departments across the state are finding increased challenges with staffing and even those that aren't are still struggling to find funding for operations and other needs," said Lt. Governor Davis. "The Governor's proposed budget recognizes the value of programs like this and makes strategic investments to support fire departments across the Commonwealth. They have our backs, and we need to have theirs. Let's get this budget passed so we can continue to live, work, and play safely in the Pennsylvania communities that we love."Speakers Include:Jack Morgan, Fire Company PresidentChief Dillon Coleman, Berkely Hills Fire ChiefLieutenant Governor Austin DavisThomas Cook, PA State Fire CommissionerRep. Emily Kinkead