ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST
Mount Holly Fire District Sheds Yet Another Lawyer
The Mount Holly Board of Fire Commissioners convened on July 15 to address the 2026 annual audit, discuss long-term capital planning for apparatus replacement and to reveal the sudden resignation of their latest solicitor.
Solicitor Resignation: The board’s attorney Dom Rota from Malamute law resigned effective immediately. Chairman Thiessen reported receiving a text notification from Rota followed by a brief call where the attorney said that the reasons for the resignation are “water under the bridge”. The Reporter pressed Chairman Thiessen for some details as to why the Solicitor resigned but he said he had nothing to share on that count. The Reporter has requested a copy of the resignation letter.
Financial Audit Review The board’s auditor presented the 2026 audit. • Internal Controls: No material weaknesses or deficiencies were identified. • Budget Compliance: The district remained within its total budget constraints, though a finding was noted regarding the 2025 purchase of two vehicles without proper prior budgeting. • Capital Reserves: The district holds $150,000 in undesignated capital and $60,000 earmarked for an AV system. These funds require specific resolutions before they can be utilized for new purchases, such as a down payment on a fire truck. • 2027 Budget Cycle: Planning must begin in September due to stricter DCA oversight and the retirement of key state personnel.
• Security Audit: A review of building access revealed 47 individuals with active key fobs who are no longer associated with the district. These fobs will be deactivated. Moving forward, all commissioners will have uniform access to all rooms.
Operational & Chief’s Report • Apparatus Replacement: The Chief warned that the current engines are 21–22 years old. Given a 3-year lead time for delivery, he recommended forming a committee immediately to spec a new engine (estimated cost: $900k–$1.1M). He suggested a 5-year staggered replacement plan for the second engine rather than replacing both simultaneously.
• Shared Services Friction: A fit test machine, which was supposed to be stored on-site per a shared service agreement with the MUA, was removed without authorization. The board is seeking its immediate return.