Clawson Discusses Fire Department

By COREY BLUEMEL Staff Writer

During the recent Clawson Town meeting, Mayor Carey Bloomer and councilmen Jerry Hatch and Larry Cook discussed the possibility of the town having its own fire department. Hatch reported that he had spoke with Randy Nielson of the Ferron fire department. Nielson informed him that the town would have to name a fire chief. For a town the size of Clawson, six volunteers would be needed for the fire crew. It is estimated that during an emergency, only one half of the fireman are on duty.
Hatch suggested that the council put together a list of names of people to contact about filling these volunteer positions. Mayor Bloomer will post a notice in the post office notifying the residents that these positions will need to be filled. The council agreed that when a list of people who would be willing to volunteer had been compiled, they will select a fire chief.
Hatch also stated that grants are available for application that would build a fire station. Mayor Bloomer informed the council that the town would require total funding from grants. Hatch has spoken to Sheriff Lamar Guymon and he feels it would be quite possible for Clawson to have its own fire department.
Cook reported to the council concerning the special service district meeting he attended. All the projects on the calendar for the year have been completed in the county. He said the Ferron sewer lagoon project is continuing, but the chip-seal projects, the water relocation project, the streets and water projects are all complete as to the work that had been scheduled.
Cook then informed the council that the Castle Valley Special Service District budget for 2004 is showing a shortfall and the district is considering raising their rates or drastically cutting their costs. They are looking at the possibility that they will not be able to purchase some much needed equipment. The district is currently studying three different options for overcoming the shortfall. Their decision will come later in the spring and whatever option is decided upon will go into effect in July 2004.
Cook requested that the council finish the cross connection agreement and send it to the special service district.
Mayor Bloomer informed the councilmen that she had spoken to UDOT and requested another exit for the town from SR-10. UDOT will come and review the roads and intersections that connect to the highway. The council discussed the need for turn lanes and where they are needed. Cook also mentioned that better shoulders for the roadway are needed. There is also a need to consider the Rock Canyon approaches with the anticipation of heavier truck traffic.
Also, a proposal has been made to allow the use of gray water for outdoor irrigation.
The Division of Water Quality is seeking comments on the plan.