Baldwin’s 3 fire companies to merge
Three fire companies serving Baldwin consolidated into a single organization, effective Nov. 19.
South Baldwin, Baldwin Independent and Option Independent stations said in a news release the merger “represents a thoughtful and strategic step forward to provide enhanced fire and rescue services to the residents of Baldwin Borough.”
The merger aims to improve coordination, reduce redundancies and respond to calls more efficiently and effectively, the fire companies said.
The merged fire companies are operating as Baldwin Fire Rescue, and vehicles and social media pages will be updated over the next year to reflect the change.
“The unification underscores our unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and property of Baldwin Borough residents,” the fire companies wrote. “Together, we’re building a stronger, more efficient organization to serve our community for years to come.”
This comes as many fire departments, often facing severe staffing challenges, have been forced to merge in recent years.
4 displaced after Clairton apartment explosion
Four people were displaced after an explosion at a Clairton apartment on Nov. 21.
The blast occurred around 11:30 p.m. on the 3700 block of Miles Avenue, TribLive news partner WTAE reported.
No one was injured.
Peoples Gas in a statement said the company was at the scene the next morning to conduct safety checks throughout the area. Crews have not found natural gas in the air or soil nearby, the company said.
Peoples received reports Nov. 21 of a possible gas odor in the area. The company said it sent a technician to investigate, but it was determined the odor was not coming from the Peoples’ system.
“The safety of the public and our employees is our first priority, and we are working closely with the Allegheny County Fire Marshall and local emergency responders,” Peoples Gas said in a statement. “This is an active situation, and more information will be released as it becomes available.”
The utility company said it is continuing to work with authorities to investigate the cause of the incident.
Historical society membership renewals
It’s time to renew Whitehall Borough Historical Society memberships. Those who have not renewed already for 2025 should have received a notice to renew your membership. Members can renew by sending a check made out to the Whitehall Borough Historical Society to PO Box 10911, Pittsburgh, Pa., 15236. Those renewing can send without a form, let us know if there are any changes to the family membership. The cost is $10 for an individual membership, $20 for a family and $50 for a business/organization membership. For a membership form, go to whitehallboroughhistoricalsociety.org.
Baldwin Holiday Festival
Celebrate the season at the annual Baldwin Holiday Festival at the borough building on Churchview Avenue on Dec. 13 from 5-8 p.m. Enjoy holiday carols, lighting of the tree, children’s crafts and games, a visit with Santa, historical displays, vendors, sweets and hot chocolate as well as food trucks. Bring a non-perishable item or a monetary donation for the local food pantry. For more information, visit baldwinpakiwanis.org.
Letters to Santa
Through Dec. 18, Santa’s mailbox is at the Baldwin Township Administration Building on community Park Drive. Children can drop off their letters to Santa and receive a letter back from him.
Christmas lights recycling
Recycle your old string lights at the Whitehall Borough Building on Borough Park Drive in partnership with Michael Brothers and Project Bundle Up.
Resident of the month
Have a neighbor in mind that you believe is an exceptional resident of Jefferson Hills? Tell us why. The December nomination form will be available until Dec. 29. The chosen resident will be awarded a certificate and a Borough challenge coin. If they wish, they will also be featured on the borough’s social media accounts. Fill out a nomination form online at jeffersonhillsboro.org.
Please note that borough elected officials are not eligible for nomination.