(La Porte County, IN) - Wills Township residents came out in support of Rolling Prairie’s volunteer fire department Monday night.

 

Over 60 people packed the Wills Township Community Center to voice their opinions on an option to partner with the New Carlisle Fire Territory, instead of continuing service with the Kankakee Township Volunteer Fire Department.

 

Citizens seemed unanimous in wanting to stay with Kankakee.

 

The township’s current contract with the volunteer fire department is due to expire. The rate for renewal increased by 50%, so Wills Township officials said they began exploring other options. Kankakee Township has reportedly offered a three-year contract for $60,000 per year. New Carlisle will match that amount for a term of one year.

 

Officials present at Monday’s hearing were Wills Township board members Jordan Smith and John Houseknecht, along with Trustee Kristi Chadderdon. Board president Barry Halter did not attend.

 

At a New Carlisle Fire Territory meeting on Wednesday, board members said a contract for service is still on the table, but the decision is now up to Wills Township officials, none of whom were present at that meeting.

 

Another public meeting to discuss the Wills Township budget is scheduled for October 24th.