Updates from the Stella Volunteer Fire Department:

As of September 2007, we have our own First Responder team and no longer need to rely on neighboring townships when a medical emergency arises. 

The fire department has been actively involved in writing grants for the past two years to obtain much needed equipment.  Since August 2006, the department has acquired 3 vehicles from grants we have written. 

First, a FEMA grant for a new tanker to replace the 1972 tanker we were using; second, a DNR grant for a used Chevrolet 1-ton brush truck with a 250 gal. water tank and pump to use on wild land fires and as a response vehicle for other emergencies.  In addition to vehicles, we have received a government grant for new turnout gear for everyone in our department.  In total, we have acquired around $270,000 worth of equipment without adding any burden to the taxpayers of the townships of Stella or Piehl.

The problem we are now facing with this additional equipment is--where do we store the vehicles?  We have been working with the Stella Town Board to develop a plan to meet our needs.  We will apply for a low interest loan from Rural Development to construct a building large enough to house our new equipment.  This item will replace the current budget line item for the debt payment made on the existing fire engine that was purchased approximately 9 years ago.  This loan will mature in 2008 and the first debt payment for the new building will not be due until 2009.  Since the debt payment is expected to be approximately the same, the Town Board does not anticipate any increase in taxes to fund this project.  This project has recently begun with the expectation that the new building will arrive sometime mid-November! 

Lastly, we would like to extend an open invitation to anyone interested in joining the fire department or first responder team to come to our meetings and become involved.  The meetings are on the first Monday of the month at the Stella Town Hall.  The First Responders meet at 6:00 PM and the Fire Dept. at 6:30 PM.

Volunteer Fire Dept. Roster