NEW KEN OFFICIALS APPROVE MERGER OF CITY’S FIRE OPERATIONS

Officials in New Kensington have approved the merger of the city’s fire operations.  The Trib reports that Council approved recognizing the merger of Citizens Volunteer Fire Company #1, New Kensington Volunteer Fire Department Engine #2 and Hilltop Hose Fire Company #3 under one group to be known as Citizens Volunteer Fire Company #1.  Fire Chief Ed Saliba said the plans are to renovate the downtown station to accommodate bunk rooms, use the Hilltop station for administrative purposes, and he will recommend selling the Parnassus station.  They are trying to fight the effects of declining membership and an increase in calls.