Lance Whaley

The Union Fire District's strategic plan is dedicated to protecting lives and property in South Kingstown through fire-related services and emergency response. It aims to enhance the quality of life for citizens, foster community partnerships, and ensure a positive work environment through training and public education. The plan emphasizes maintaining an all-volunteer fire service, advancing recruitment and training through initiatives like a Career and Technical Education program and access to advanced burn facilities, and completing infrastructure projects such as the Matunuck Fire Station. Future growth includes modernizing facilities, enhancing recruitment, and strengthening community engagement.

The annual meeting includes the election of officers, the assessment and collection of tax to secure protection against fire, and the furnishing of water for hydrants within the District. The budget recommended by the Fire Wardens for 2020-2021 is also a key topic, covering various categories such as salaries and benefits, insurance, equipment replacement and maintenance, general and administrative expenses, transfers to the Capital Projects Fund, hydrant rental, building repairs, new vehicles, communications, firefighter training, boat and water rescue equipment, Length of Service Award Program, training ground maintenance, and a thermal imaging camera.

The annual meeting includes the election of officers, the assessment and collection of tax to secure protection against fire, the furnishing of water for hydrants, and the transaction of other business. The budget recommended by the Fire Wardens for 2024-2025 includes allocations for salaries and benefits, equipment replacement and maintenance, insurance, general and administrative costs, hydrant rental, building repairs, communications, firefighter training, boat and water rescue equipment, Length of Service Award Program, training ground maintenance, IT services, new vehicles, and a transfer from the Capital Projects Fund.

The annual meeting will cover the election of officers, the assessment and collection of taxes for fire protection, the provision of water for hydrants, and other lawful business. The recommended budget for 2022-2023 includes allocations for salaries and benefits, insurance, equipment replacement and maintenance, general and administrative expenses, transfers to the Capital Projects Fund, hydrant rental, building repairs, new vehicles, communications, firefighter training, boat and water rescue equipment, the Length of Service Award Program, training ground maintenance, IT services, and station building and property improvements.