The Turkey Creek Fire Territory Executive Board approved the construction contract for renovation of Syracuse Fire Station No. 1 during its regular monthly meeting Thursday.

Fire chief Mickey Scott reviewed a few points of the contract prior to the board approving it. The contract was drawn up by Maust Architectural Services Inc. between the owner and contractor. Turkey Creek Township Trustee Barb Griffith was named as owner since payment for the project will run through the trustee’s office, which is standard American Institute of Architects document format for a construction contact.

David Cates, attorney for the fire territory, explained the form is to protect the architect, which it does well. He told the board he had no problem with the contract.

A hearing of the common wage council must be held as it was determined wages set at the last common wage hearing were good only from April 14 to July 15. Robb Flutz, general manager of Allen County Builders, said the contractors fees haven’t changed, but a new hearing will still be held.

Fire territory insurance agent Chris Cotton was also on hand to provide a quick view on health insurance renewals in regards to the Affordable Care Act. Cotton has begun the “shopping” process to compare group health offers. The plan must be in place by Dec. 1 in order to be in compliance with the Affordable Care Act.

Cotton told the board he is looking at renewing with PHP policy by Dec. 1, one month early, which will save money in the long run. The department has budgeted for a 20 percent increase in premiums based on information already received. The board approved renewing the PHP health insurance policy early.

Scott reported the department conducted its annual fire hose pressure test. Four 50-foot sections of 1 3/4 inch attack line failed, as did one 50-foot section of 2 1/2 inch attack line and one 25-foot section of LDH 5 inch supply line. Replacement hose has been ordered.

Board member Bill Musser asked why the fire hose failed and how long fire hose typically lasts. Scott reported the hose failed due to age and that, depending on use, fire hose typically lasted 8 to 10 years.

Musser also asked about the purchase of an equipment truck. Scott said he has the specifications ready to send to bid. He was asked to attend the next Syracuse Town Council meeting to explain the purchase and answer any questions that may arise.