Celebrating Firefighters and Public Meeting Round-Up for April

In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Fire and Rescue Chief Michael McShane and staffers Erin Bassegio and Brian Early.

Parker and McShane discuss the evolving role of firefighters, from traditional firefighting to a broader emergency response and community health support. McShane highlights the challenges of staffing and recruitment, as well as the increasing demands on firefighters due to climate change and severe weather events. They also touch on the history of the Dover Fire Department, including the oldest active fire station in the state, and celebrate International Firefighter Appreciation Day on May 4.

Later, Bassegio provides updates from various boards and commissions, including the Zoning Board of Adjustment, Energy Commission, Community Trail Advisory Committee, Conservation Commission, and Planning Board. Early covers City Council meetings, discussing topics such as a milfoil treatment grant for Willand Pond, waterfront development resolutions, a cease-fire resolution, merging advisory committees, and the annual street paving program. He also mentions the School Board's adoption of new curriculums.