01/07/2026
The Fire Service in our community is at a historic inflection point, and it is important for our residents to be aware and properly informed. To offer some clarity for our residents a previous Board of Supervisors completed a Fire Protection Study in 2020. Over the subsequent years the Township has spent a considerable amount of time working with both Excelsior and Pinecroft Fire Companies to address their issues and challenges. In addition to the Township efforts Excelsior Volunteer Fire Company, of their own initiative, completed a Strategic Planning Exercise to consider the long-term needs from a department perspective.
In 2025 Antis Township partnered with Bellwood Borough and the PA Department of Economic and Community Development Local Government Services (DCED) to complete a separate Fire Services Study. This study considered the combined community (borough and township) needs and used data, not personal opinions, to make a set of short- and long-term recommendations for the overall benefit of our residents. It was clearly stated by DCED the driving force behind the study results would be what is best for the residents and not the personal wishes (or egos) of any municipal official, fire department/officer or staff member. This study was completed by a respected and independent 3rd party consultant selected by DCED (not by either municipality or department). Many of the problems and subsequent recommendations are in line with the previous study as the underlying issues have not changed but have only intensified over the years.
Antis Township is fully aware of the challenges our volunteer firefighters and departments are facing. The 2025 Fire Services Study states: “Immediate action should be taken to establish a Single Fire Department to provide the necessary coordination for the fire operations within the Township and Borough.” This potential action is what the Board of Supervisors is currently considering, and as evidenced by the multiple studies and plans completed by both the Township and Excelsior Fire, it is not a decision being taken lightly. The Township has informed all parties involved about their intent to work towards a single department (please note “department” does not necessarily mean “station”) and invited both departments to be a part of this process and discussion on how to best move forward. Ultimately, it is up to the individual fire companies to be willing partners in moving forward to best serve all our residents.
The 2020 and 2025 studies can be found on the Antis Township Website or for public viewing at the Antis Township Municipal Building (909 N 2nd Street, Bellwood, PA). If there are any questions please do not hesitate to send a private Facebook message or contact the township manager directly.
Thank You.
Antis Township Fire Protection is provided by two volunteer fire companies. Both fire companies are responsible for providing fire protection, rescue service, and other emergency assistance for the Township.
