Keweenaw Report Your Source for Local News and Sports
Volunteer firefighters in L’Anse will receive their first increase in compensation in more than 20 years.
At last night’s meeting, the village council approved boosting the hourly rate for time spent onsite from $15 to $20 dollars per hour. The monthly stipend for the fire chief will rise from $400 per month to $500 per month.
Village president Ron Ervast and councilor William Menge, Junior abstained from the vote, because both are members of the fire department.
The raise brings compensation in line with that offered by other departments in Baraga County. It will be retroactive to the beginning of the most recent fiscal year.
Village manager Bob LaFave says the stipend helps defray the costs incurred by firefighters…
Others noted that many firefighters leave jobs at which they earn more than the stipend to fight fires, and spend significant time in training.
LaFave expressed hope that the increased stipend will encourage young people to join the department. Fire Chief Mike Bianco said the department recently added four new members, but still has two vacancies.
The council officially said “farewell” to longtime public works director Scott Lloyd, who is about to retire. Lloyd thanked the council for their support over the years…
The fire department is also planning a community picnic at Waterfront Park September 9th. Details are still being worked out.
