WAYNESBORO- The Waynesboro Volunteer Fire Department (WVFD) has announced it is being forced to vacate its fire station on Potomac Street by the Borough of Waynesboro. The statement from WVFD, see below, provides further details about the Borough’s directive and outlines the steps the WVFD is taking to manage the transition. It also expresses the organization’s appreciation for public support and offers contact information for further inquiries.
STATEMENT:
The Waynesboro Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., a 501(c)(3) Pennsylvania non-profit, received notification from the Borough of Waynesboro on Monday, December 4, 2023 to vacate the fire station on Potomac Street and return any Borough owned equipment to Fire Chief Devers prior to December 16, 2023.
This sudden notice from the Borough of Waynesboro is causing unnecessary chaos, as well as requiring the members of the WVFD to adjust the staffing of the highly anticipated Santa Claus rides. These rides will be held as planned. The members of the WVFD are committed to serving the community and hope to avoid cancelling this event or any fire service interruptions.
In a letter received on Monday, December 4, 2023, Borough Manager Jason Stains notified the WVFD that all Borough owned property and equipment currently housed on various fire apparatus must be returned to Chief Devers prior to December 16, 2023. Additionally, any remaining WVFD apparatus, property, signage and equipment must be removed from the Potomac Street station no later than 5:00 pm on December 16, 2023.
In a notice to the Borough of Waynesboro sent September 5, 2023, the WVFD provided notice of their intent to separate on December 29, 2023, providing notice of over three (3) months. This time frame would have allowed for an orderly separation and no service interruptions.
Assistance from the public is welcome and appreciated as the WVFD finalizes the move from the Potomac Street fire station.
Please contact the Waynesboro Volunteer Fire Department at 717-762-2611 for additional information.