Upper Macungie Township recently met with representatives of the township's three fire companies to discuss mutual concerns.

Since the last meeting was in January, there were quite a few topics up for discussion.

The first item concerned fundraising and donations for the fire companies.

A discussion ensued as to whether each company should solicit donations on its own or if they should combine efforts.

Donating via credit card or Paypal through the fire company website was discussed.

Lower Macungie Township's procedure was discussed and a suggestion was made to contact that township to see how donations are solicited for their fire company.

Jeff Grim of Fogelsville, Leroy Gross, of Station 56, and Calvin Fetherolf, of Trexlertown, will meet in the next few weeks to decide the best way to approach the matter. The board noted fire companies must solicit their own donations as it would be a conflict of interest to have the township do the solicitation.

Fuel for the fire chief's vehicle was discussed.

Currently, the chief pays for his own fuel when going to fires, meetings or any other fire company business.

The board approved giving the chief 50 gallons per month.

Standard operating guidelines are currently being studied, according to Fire Commissioner Grant Grim.

The SOG must be voted on by the membership of all three fire companies. The intention is to make the SOG a part of each company's bylaws.

Solicitor Andrew Schantz will review the document and comment prior to adoption.

A Firefighter One class is tentatively scheduled for August at the Fogelsville fire station.

Supervisor Sam Ashmar said the fire companies should ascertain if there is any interest in this course and plan accordingly. Trexlertown will be having a vehicle rescue class Nov. 15-16 at the station.

A fire study will be conducted to determine if the fire companies have the right equipment, correct training and good standard operating guidelines.

If the township achieves a high rating, it could affect insurance premiums within the community.

Grant Grim said it would take four months to complete the study.

A motion was passed to advertise for a request for a proposal from any parties interested in the venture.

The command vehicle proposed for use by Upper Macungie and South Whitehall townships was discussed by the board.

Supervisor Jim Brunell contended there should be a joint meeting with South Whitehall to discuss the agreement between the two parties. Several items in the agreement need further discussion, he explained.

The next board and fire company meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Sept. 8.

Brunell advised the fire company represenatives if they have any expected expenditures for next year, they should inform the township so they can be put in the budget.

Trexlertown Fire Company thanked the township for its assistance in completing the apron at the fire station. Township employees and equipment were used in the project.

Trexlertown also noted its 100th anniversary will be in 2016 with a tentative scheduling for a banquet in April and a parade in July. Fogelsville Fire Company will also observe its 100th anniversary that year.