Fire, first aid project discussed

MANALAPAN - Municipal Engineer Greg Valesi recently informed the Town-ship Committee there are specific items that need to be addressed regarding the proposed construction of a combination fire department and first aid building on township owned property between town hall and the Manalapan post office.

At the committee's April 11 meeting, Valesi said he had an engineering design for the project. He told officials they must meet with fire department representatives and first aid squad officers to determine what costs those entities are willing to share.

Manalapan is divided into several fire districts, each of which has is own budget. Each fire district is supported through property taxes. The fire companies that serve the municipality are the Gordons Corner Fire Company and the Manalapan Fire Company No. 1.

First aid service is provided by the Eng-lishtown-Manalapan First Aid Squad, Sanford Street.

Deputy Mayor Michelle Roth said it was time to "talk turkey" with the fire company representatives about what, if any amount, they are willing to put into the construction pot.

Valesi said in order for the project to proceed, the committee needs to have an architect develop a conceptual rendering for the building and come up with a budget for the work.

Township Administrator Tara Lovrich said she will schedule a meeting with the fire commissioners and first aid officers to discuss the matter.

- Kathy Baratta