Wilson Fire/Rescue Services has once again proven its professionalism and care through a thorough outside review.

Last week the Commission on Fire Accreditation International voted unanimously to reaccredit WF/RS, after hearing from the department's representatives: Chief Albert Alston, Deputy Chief Sumner, Compliance Administer Tracy McKeel, Kandis Williams, and Assessor Amy Valdez.

WF/RS has been accredited since 2002 and must apply for accreditation every five years, which includes a site visit from a peer team as well as the hearing. The peer team leader presents the recommendations and findings of the peer team during the hearing. The process helps the department with new strategies to address fire service issues. 

This was the fifth time that WF/RS has passed review and it went very smoothly, thanks to all the work Chief Alston and his staff did in advance and every day. We are proud of all our departments that hold themselves up to national standards and review and unsurprised when they get glowing reviews. Congratulations to the men and women of Wilson Fire/Rescue Services! 

The Wilson Youth Council is now recruiting members for the 2022-23 school year, a wonderful chance for teens to make new friendships, build stronger college applications, and make the community stronger, all while having a great time.

Don't know what the WYC is? Luckily, the community just heard a great review of what they do at the Aug. 19 City Council meeting. you can watch it here, but in short, the key accomplishments in the last year include:

• Serving at 35 community projects each year including annual events such as Special Olympics, the Whirligig Festival, the Adult Spelling Bee and the Wilson County Fair. 
• Participation in the State Youth Council Network annual conference. They brought home 4 awards this year. 
• For the first time, 9 students participated in the Job Shadow Program
• Also for the first time, about 10 students went on a Quest of college tours. They toured 9 different colleges in 3 days. 

The Wilson Youth Council is a teen leadership program sponsored by the City of Wilson’s Human Relations Office. They are a dynamic, civic minded group that volunteers in the community. 2023 will be their 20th anniversary and they have big plans. Any public, private, charter or homeschool students are eligible to join. They are guaranteed to gain community volunteer hours, have team building and learn leadership skills while being a part of this award-winning group.

Rain barrels are beneficial to both homeowners and the city's infrastructure by capturing rain water and alleviating the amount of water running through stormwater pipes. By connecting a water hose to the rain barrel's spigot homeowners can use the captured rainwater to irrigate lawns and gardens, reducing the use of treated water. 

In 2022, our stormwater division has sold 33 rain barrels and 15 compost bins. Haven't gotten one yet? Stormwater will be selling both rain barrels and compost bins at the last Wilson Farmer's & Artisan Market, this Saturday, Aug. 23. 

Can't make it to the market? You can purchase these anytime by calling 252-293-5303, or by submitting an online form, link in button below.

RIDE by Via has been in place for two years now and it is time to renew the contract to continue our micro transit service. 

Currently ridership is between 3,700 to 3,900 trips per week. With an increase in demand, additional vehicle hours are needed to provide adequate service. In addition to demand, inflation in both fuel, vehicles, and labor, hourly rates must be increased. The exact start date of increase has not been determined yet. 

RIDE operates Monday through Friday from 5:30 a.m. until 7 p.m. On Saturdays, RIDE operates from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. The easiest way to request a RIDE is through the Via app (links below) or use the web application. You can also call 252-595-5357.