Despite Scandal Fire Company Urges Residents to Donate

After serving the community of Glen Ellyn as a firefighter for nearly 50 years, Stuart Stone can recall some highs and lows of his career that spans decades. 

At Monday night's village board meeting Stone, assistant chief of , shared those memories with the community and called upon residents for the first time since a former treasurer of the company was arrested for allegedly stealing close to $260,000 from the organization. 

"We need your financial support but we also need your support as a community," said Stone. 

On the morning of May 13, and charged with eight counts of theft, two counts of continuing a financial crimes enterprise, one count of financial institution fraud, one count of money laundering and two counts of forgery. 

That arrest was barely discussed at the meeting but Stone detailed the years of service and commitment his crews have provided the community of Glen Ellyn. As volunteers, Stone reminded residents that donations are an integral part of the department's success.    

That unwavering service and commitment to the community is what Jeanne Enright spoke highly of at Monday's meeting. During Enright's 15 years in Glen Ellyn, she said the department has always been quick to show up during a time of need.   

"Whether we give or not they will be there," said Enright. 

Enright urged residents to open up their wallets, to help support the department that asks so little of them. 

"We all take their service for granted," said Enright.

Last year, the company responded to nearly 3,000 calls of which 1,250 were fire related, according to Stone.  

"We are always mindful of the needs of others. We look for your support, we need your support," said Stone.