Howardwick settles fire department suit

The City of Howardwick this week approved a settlement with the Howardwick Volunteer Fire Department bringing control of the city’s fire protection back under the authority of the City Council, and named former city alderman Brice Hawley as interim fire chief.

In special meeting Monday night, the city approved the terms of the agreed judgment by which all monies, titles, gear, vehicles, and other property of the department have been returned to the city.

Volunteer firemen in Howardwick formed their own non-profit organization on March 26, 2018, and had been at odds with city officials for several months. City officials said the HVFD displaced the official fire department as defined by ordinance and formally titled the City of Howardwick Volunteer Fire Department.

The formation of the non-profit came about four months after a November 2017 special election in which Greta Byars was elected mayor.

Prior to that election, the fire department had a service agreement approved by the city council, establishing the department’s independence from the city.

In April of this year, the city filed suit against the HVFD, saying in part that the department had improperly transferred vehicle titles from the city to the non-profit department.

During its regular meeting last Tuesday, July 9, the city council approved a proposed settlement with the department, and firemen unanimously approved the offer in a special meeting on July 11.

This week’s agreement effectively dissolves the HVFD and reaffirms the function of the City of Howardwick Volunteer Fire Department defined by the city’s code of ordinances.

“The City will move forward in operating the City of Howardwick Volunteer Fire Department (CHVFD), which is an unincorporated department of the City that has been in existence for at least 33 years,” a statement from City Hall said. “The CHVFD will, at all times, remain under the authority, control, management and supervision of the City and its governing body, the City Council.”

In a 4-1 vote Howardwick, the council named Hawley as interim fire chief, with Alderman Mary Grady opposed.

Hawley said Monday that his immediate goals are to get advice from state and local officials, such as the Clarendon Volunteer Fire Department, Amarillo Fire Department, the Donley County Sheriff’s Office, the state fire marshal’s office, and others.

Howardwick residents age 18 and over, as well as those working in Howardwick or living within 20 miles of the city, are welcome to apply for membership on the fire department through City Hall.

The interim chief said a fish fry fundraiser is being planned for August 24 to help raise money for the department.

While the CHVFD is getting up and operational, the Donley County Sheriff’s Office, Clarendon VFD, Hedley VFD, and Claude VFD will provide fire protection services to the community.

The city gratefully acknowledges the efforts and cooperation of these entities in keeping residents safe.

“This is all positive,” City Secretary Sandra Childress told the Enterprise. “The city is protecting our citizens and moving forward.”