Quarles addresses issues with VFD

ROSSTON – Changes are coming for the Rosston Volunteer Fire Department.

At the November meeting of the Rosston City Council Monday night, Mayor Dale Quarles said he’s disappointed in how the department has been running and will be making changes. He pointed out there have been two break-ins at the department, with items for a raffle taken the first time and a jaws of life taken the second time. Chief Judy Meyers, who took over in June, he continued, installed locks on the doors to the fire bay that only a select few have the code for. Cameras have also been set up outside the bay, but not inside.

“I’ve never seen as much chaos,” Quarles said. There will be significant changes. I’ve got to get things under control.” He told the council something isn’t adding up with him and he’ll do what’s needed to take care of the problem. He pointed out only certain people having the access code to the door is a “no-no” because it’s the city’s fire department and needs to be accessible to all volunteers. “I’ll do what I need to make the fire department more accessible and we’ll go back to the basics for the safety of the people.”

In other business, the council was told the budget is getting better with the balance up and bills getting paid off. The final payment for the new tractor was mailed off Monday so it will be paid for as soon as the check is received.

Quarles presented the council with copies of a proposed budget for 2024, telling the members to look over it so they can discuss and approve it at the December meeting. He pointed out the budget was increased for utilities and office supplies.

He will also be getting quotes for renovating city hall. Quarles said the price of lumber has dropped and he’ll try to get a loan to get the work done.