According to a statement from City Clerk Chris Martin, reinstated members – in addition to Wendt – include Mary Yates, Brian Golden and Todd Osterhout. The city relied on mutual aid from the Avoca and Minden volunteer fire departments during the dispute.

Mayor Pro Tem Bob Richmond said the separate bank account the department maintained was used for money derived from pancake feeds and other fundraisers, and that the Council simply wanted the funds in a proper account. Richmond added that the department has since turned the funds over to the City. The account held about $40,000.

A meeting held last week invited any who were interested in joining the fire department to come to city hall and speak with Richmond. He said the department, before the firings, was at three active members but will have more than 20 active members soon. Usually four to five members are active at any given time.