BELLEVUE BOROUGH, Pa. — The fiery debate over the future of emergency services in Bellevue Borough took center stage again Tuesday night.
Emotions were high inside the Municipal Building as borough leaders clashed with supporters of the now-decertified volunteer fire department for the second time in two weeks.
“There was opportunity tonight for you guys to rescind this vote and get the volunteers back in the fray right now,” said Columbia Hose, Hook and Ladder Company Chief Glenn Pritchard.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Bellevue council votes to decertify fire department; Pittsburgh expected to handle coverage
Pritchard has been pleading with the council since the decertification vote three weeks ago, saying his volunteers are still willing and able to help.
“It’s like walking back into a divorce and I think it shows the dedication and commitment of these volunteers, that we have been done this dirty by this council and we’re still willing to put our lives on the line for our neighbors and our community,” Pritchard said.
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Some community members questioned the borough’s motives, even leveling strong allegations and pleading for more transparency.
“You have violated the Sunshine Act,” resident Lisa Soscia claimed.
11 News tried to question leadership about that.
Most avoided our cameras and questions, except Councilwoman Sabreena Miller, who originally voted against the decertification.
“What I feel is that there should have been public comment and public engagement prior to making the decision,” Miller said. “That’s a conversation I will have with the solicitor to determine if there was a violation.”
Currently, Pittsburgh firefighters are helping with emergencies in Bellevue, but Miller tells 11 News there is not a formal agreement in place.
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