4 Resign From Ellicott Fire Department

Some residents of the El Paso County town of Ellicott are concerned about the factors leading to the resignation of four volunteer firefighters.

Fire Chief Nellie Roop confirms the resignations happened after a meeting on Tuesday, but wouldn’t elaborate.

“It came down to just a difference of opinions,” she said. “They’re entitled to (their opinions) and they’ll argue it until they see that either they win, or they’ll just give up.”

Roop said the resignations won’t affect fire department operations because 38 volunteers remain available. She also said the resignations weren’t a factor in a home being destroyed by fire on Thursday, citing the time required to bring in water to a rural location.

However, at least two residents expressed concern about the situation which led to the resignations. One resident described a department rife with bickering and nepotism, confirmed by the other resident in an anonymous interview.

“I’ve been out on fires with them, and they just kind of argue,” said the resident. “They don’t even know what they’re doing, as far as I’m concerned. They’re good people, but I think it’d probably be better if we just got another crew.”

Roop acknowledges some disagreements within the department, but said it’s nothing more than normal for a close-knit group of co-workers.

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter is always welcome to apply, said Roop.