WISCASSET, Maine (NEWS CENTER) — Firefighters in Wiscasset are upset that a decades-old tradition has flamed out. Since the late 1960's, firefighters have been able to wash their personal vehicles at the fire station.
The chief says it's been considered a small perk of the job since they only pay firefighters $10.50 an hour when they are putting their lives on the line at a fire call.
Town policy says you can't use town equipment for personal use and earlier this week selectmen chose not to amend that policy for firefighters.
Wiscasset Fire Chief TJ Merry said Friday, "It does seem small and petty to some people but to our department, dedicated to what they do, it's a big deal."
Town Manager Marian Anderson said she understands the importance of traditions but also says since firefighters are paid they are town employees and subject to the same rules as all other employees.
"If we allow them to use equipment can public works use town garage to do personal work on their vehicles? It's a bigger discussion than the firefighters. We will have that discussion and it will be resolved," said Anderson.
Chief Merry says he worries losing perks like these could make it harder to find people willing to train as firefighters.