“Early ice and late ice is most unsafe,” Fox said. “The conditions – you just never know with ice. It can be very dangerous. Everyone needs to take special precaution.”

A third party would be hired to seek payment from insurance companies of nonresidents for certain services.

The items are used as a distraction to help responders tend to immediate needs.

Gone is the canopy, erected on pavement in the parking lot that volunteers used for desk space and shelter during all types of weather - replaced with a heated and air-conditioned portable office.

The headquarters has had a tumultuous, two-century life.

Chief Michael Ward says changes will lead to quicker response times and greater safety; opponents say it costs too much.

Brandon Ballweber has been replaced by Melissa LaCombe to the board of trustees.