Representatives of Torrington's volunteer fire departments reported Nov. 5 that property, vehicles and equipment have been transferred to the city and that the volunteer organizations have turned over funds to support future maintenance and upgrades.

A volunteer representative said the transfers were final and described the outcome as fulfilling the original intent of the volunteer system: to shorten response times in outlying districts by enabling a permanent city career presence. The mayor reported the city already received a $120,000 contribution from one volunteer department and said the transferred property includes a lease with Crown Castle (described in the meeting as a fiber-optic switching station or generator) that will generate revenue dedicated to property upkeep.

The mayor said the public-safety study intended for the board was not yet finalized and the board tabled receipt of that study. The city will form a building committee to shepherd site selection, planning and construction for a public safety complex; the mayor said she has submitted a grant application to the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) and expects a response in November or December. The mayor requested one board member to serve on the building committee and said the committee will also include the facilities director, the deputy chief and two union members if the union nominates representatives.

Fire Chief Tripp described next steps for an East Side facility, including meetings with public works and the WPCA to identify sewer hook-up options and to determine whether the city must absorb private sewer mains to connect. He said city staff have been in frequent contact about establishing daytime staffing for the East Side and that further planning will proceed after meetings with the mayor-elect and incoming board members.

Board members thanked volunteer leaders for the transfer and noted the funds and lease revenue will be dedicated to the site. No formal construction contract or site was approved at the meeting; the board awaits the final study and any grant decisions before moving forward.