Meeting Summary and Briefs: Manhattan Fire Protection District for February 17, 2026

Manhattan Fire Protection District Meeting | February 17, 2026

The Manhattan Fire Protection District Board of Trustees held its regular meeting on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Fire Station #81. In addition to reviewing construction progress on the District’s new fire station and approving personnel hires, the Board managed routine financial approvals and heard updates on specific fire marshal activities and ongoing departmental training initiatives. Trustees Bill Moncrief, Larry Goodwin, Bill Weber, Brian Hupe, and Mike Shivers were present, while Nick Kotchou and Bob Davis were absent.

Brief Title: District Collects Nearly $95,000 in January Ambulance Fees
James Howard of Governmental Accounting joined the meeting via Zoom to present the District’s financial analysis for the first month of January. Howard reported that 1% of the budgeted revenue has been collected so far this year. A significant portion of that revenue came from emergency medical services, with the District collecting $94,955.00 in ambulance fees. Overall expenditures are tracking well at 8% of the budget. Howard also noted that his office will continue to monitor interest rates. The Board unanimously approved the treasurer’s report and the payment of bills following a motion by Trustee Brian Hupe and a second by Trustee Larry Goodwin.

Brief Title: Battalion Chief Attends Seminar on Solar and Battery Risks
As green energy infrastructure expands, the District is actively training on the associated fire risks. Battalion Chief Bruce Boyle reported that he recently attended a seminar focused on the specific hazards associated with solar panels and battery plants. Boyle described the seminar as a “very good class with lots of information,” and advised the Board that the Fire District may need to make future operational considerations to safely respond to emergencies involving these technologies.

Brief Title: Fire Marshal Provides Sprinkler and Solar Project Updates
Fire Marshal and Lieutenant Dave Kolosh provided his monthly report, noting his ongoing collaboration with fire safety advocacy groups. Kolosh recently took part in an interview with the Northern Illinois Sprinkler Coalition, and an article featuring the interview is expected to be published soon. Additionally, Kolosh updated the Board on the status of various solar projects and permits currently processing within the District’s jurisdiction. He is also continuing ongoing administrative work to update the District’s website and digital forms.