RICHARD ANDERSON
SOUTHWICK – The Board of Selectmen took no action last night on the transfer of funds requested by Fire Chief Richard Anderson.
Anderson asked to transfer $17,000 from capital funds to the operational capital account. The funds were originally appropriated for the purchase and installation of an eight-channel radio linkage system forthe department that could also be used by other town departments. Anderson told the board last week he found a less expensive way to handle the fire department’s needs and wanted to use the remaining funds for a backup dispatch system.
Last night Anderson, along with Police Chef Mark Krynicki and Department of Public Works Director Jeffrey Neece, met with the finance committee before the board meeting.
Anderson said the committee chose to table the item until its October meeting.
“We will have a technical person come to their next meeting,” said Anderson.
Chief Administrative Officer Karl Stinehart said because of the timing, the measure would not be included in the Oct. 10 Town Meeting.
Board Chairman Arthur Pinell said the original multi-channel option would have accommodated other departments and wondered if the single channel would impact any other departments.
“This proposal does my system on the radio tower,” said Anderson. “To get other radios up there they have to do a similar thing.”
Anderson said the multi-channel microwave system was “the right system” for use by several departments. However, “no one said they wanted to do it.”
Krynicki said he was waiting for the SFD to get its signal on the tower by the water tank first.
“If it worked then we could piggyback on it,” said Krynicki.
Anderson was asked about the difference in cost between the two options. He said the single system would cost “a couple grand” versus $17,000.
Anderson said the money could be used to remedy several issues within the SFD.
“Do I cure three problems, or one?” he said.
The board suggested Anderson keep the police, DPW and Emergency Management departments updated throughout the process.
Selectman Russell Fox recognized Anderson’s efforts to better utilize the funds.
“Thank you for trying to save the taxpayers money,” said Fox.
