Unmanned fire station worries councilman
By LARRY HILLIARD Ledger Staff Writer larry@gaffneyledger.com

Cherokee County Councilman Tim Spencer was alarmed to discover there were no fire trucks or firefighters during three of his four visits to the East Gaffney substation.

Spencer made the visits after complaints from nearby Alma Elementary School officials and residents about the absence of a fire truck at the substation for prolonged periods of time.

Spencer then instructed Cherokee County Interim Administrator Ben Clary during Monday's council meeting to contact city officials about the matter.

According to an agreement with the county, the city is expected to provide fire service to an unincorporated area outside the city limits known as the Greater Gaffney Fire District. In return for the fire protection, the city collects a fire tax from those county residents and businesses located in the fire district.

Clary said it was never the county's intention to have the East Gaffney substation be unmanned or unequipped.

Spencer, who represents the East Gaffney community, said he wants a fire truck and firefighter at the substation at all times.

Gaffney Administrator James Taylor said he is addressing the complaint.

"It's a concern we are taking seriously," Taylor said. "It's enough of a concern that I have asked the fire chief to look into it."

Taylor said the fire chief is exploring ways to minimize the time when the substation is without a fire truck and crew. The substation is staffed with a three-member crew.

Taylor cautioned occasions will arise when the substation is vacant.

"There will be times when they are out on a call and other times when they are training," Taylor said. "And every morning, they leave to fuel up."

Spencer suggested that at least one firefighter should stay at the substation during training sessions. But Taylor said that's not feasible since the firefighters train as a team.