Hancock Fire Department Receives Anonymous $10,000 Donation for Equipment

Hancock’s fire department will receive an anonymous 10,000-dollar donation from a private citizen. Last night Fire Chief Bill Lepisto announced to the city council that a resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, has donated 10,000 dollars to the Hancock Fire Department. Lepisto says that after discussing the donation and the department’s needs with the donor, they determined the funds would best help replace several helmets for firefighters. 

“I know your budget is exact, so what I’m asking is if the city can cross off the $11,132 towards the bullard fire helmets, for the private donation of $10,000 and then the department will cover the remaining $1132 of our fundraising efforts for last summer’s two dances.” – Bill Lepisto, Fire Chief, Hancock Fire Department

Chief Lepisto says he hopes to place an equipment order later in the year, the first order completing half of the replacements, and a second order to fill the second half. He adds that ordering the helmets in two groups will help when the department replaces equipment in the future, and all helmets will not expire at the same time.

Another item was removed from the agenda and moved to next month by city manager Mary Babcock due to councilors Blau and McKenzie being absent. Hancock will plan to have the council review the master plan at the first June meeting. Following the council meeting Hancock leaders began work again on the city 2024-25 budget, while also reviewing a long-term outlook for the city.