Regarding the July 14 story, “Fire hall sold as part of merger,” the Butler Township Fire Department existed from 1949 until 2019.

There is more to this story than a merger. Other factors were involved, which are known only by a few.

The present situation has Lyndora and Butler city one mile apart. Then we have Meridian, which is in the far corner of the municipality, next to Connoquenessing Township. The two largest wards, Butler Township 1-1 and 1-2, have no fire station.

Chief Kevin Smith states that since the stations are manned, the residents of South Butler are covered.

But what happens if a major fire occurs in the city or township, and there is also an incident at Butler County Community College, Dutchtown Road, Sunnyview or September Drive? It has happened before. Then, the closest department is Penn Township. It’s a very fine department, but it’s miles away.

Within a few years, Butler Township will have an entirely paid fireforce with a central station. With stimulus money becoming available, this plan should be implemented now.

However, a station needs to be built somewhere in wards 1-1 and 1-2. I would suggest BC3.