Published May 15. 2014 12:00AM
Just one week after failing to secure a $550,000 grant for a new fire truck from the Northampton County Gaming Authority, the Nancy Run Fire Company had a lot more success on their home turf.
Bethlehem Township Commissioners unanimously agreed, at their May 5 meeting, to spend $1,063,853 for a new 100-foot rear-mounted ladder truck that will replace a 1991 model that is nearing the end of its useful life.
In a divided 5-4 vote, Northampton County's Gaming Board rejecting a $550,000 grant request April 28.
Although Commissioners have agreed to foot the entire bill from a $10 million line of credit, Nancy Run is still seeking grants on a state and federal level. "We'll continue looking out for other options," Nancy Run Fire Chief Jamie Hauze told Commissioners.
One of those options might be the Gaming Authority. Some members, like Lower Nazareth's James Pennington, signaled a willingness to foot 25 percent if the cost, arguing that some of the need for this is the result of the casino. Other members, like Bethlehem's Joe Kelly, argued that the entire $550,000 should be awarded because the ladder truck is a back-up to Bethlehem's two ladder trucks. He said the fire truck is needed "to protect that asset," referring to the casino.
Bethlehem Township Commissioners unanimously agreed to promote Officer Stephen Malitzki Jr. to corporal at their May 5 meeting. 'He's worked hard to earn this promotion,' said Chief Dan Pancoast, who recommended Malitzki from a pool of three candidates. Malitzki has worked in the police department since 1989 and also served two years before that as a part-time officer. Militski is the officer who recently rescued a two-month baby in 39 degree weather who was left in a mini-van while her mother drank for
