Officials in eastern Berks County said merger of the fire companies in Bally, Barto and Bechtelsville is expected to be completed by July after bylaws are written and a chief is selected.
Bechtelsville Fire Chief Jeffrey Reitnauer said the merged company will be called the Eastern Berks Fire Department.
The Bally, Barto and Bechtelsville fire companies have been pursuing the merger for about two years.
The idea started when Barto officials asked to join with Bechtelsville because of a decline in volunteers.
The three companies are volunteer-only and have a total of about 50 to 60 members. They also can save money by consolidating trucks and equipment.
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Information from: Reading Eagle, http://www.readingeagle.com/
