SPEARFISH, S.D. —In a special city council meeting Tuesday night, the City of Spearfish announced it would sign a settlment agreement with the Spearfish Volunteer Firefighters’ Association that would end all pending litigation that began last year.
In a release, Association President Glen Lewis said “having the Association and the City working as one is a big win for the community, and we are excited about what this means for the future.”
The settlement agreement addresses issues related to deferred compensation, ownership of historic artifacts, ownership of vehicles and equipment, South Dakota Community Foundation endowment funding, and a funding partnership between both entities to pursue the development of a fire training facility.
Spearfish Mayor Dana Boke said in the release; “I am very thankful to be here at this place with the volunteers, acknowledging that the process has involved difficult and challenging times for all of the entities involved. I’d like to commend the volunteers and the public safety leadership team for maintaining a strong foundation to continue the high level of service expected by the community, staying committed to the process, and holding to the vision for the future.”
Through the Spearfish Fire Department, both organizations say they are excited to continue to provide the excellent fire protection services for the community and fire protection district that have been in place since 1881.
Spearfish Fire Chief Scott Deaver says “we’re excited to explore the feasibility of a training facility. This is all geared toward making the Spearfish Fire Department the premier fire department.”
