HANOVER — The Town of Hanover is still evaluating the potential of consolidating its fire districts.

Hanover Town Supervisor Lou Pelletter recently attended a webinar to learn more about the needs of fire departments — such as declining enrollment, updated training, and ever changing regulations — and how to meet those needs through consolidation. Pelletter received permission from the Town Board to enter into an agreement with the provider of the webinar to serve as a consultant as the Town pursues district consolidation.

Pelletter stated previously his hope for consolidating the districts is to share costs and equipment needs evenly across the region, rather than each department needing to maintain its own budgets and raise funds each year.

Pelletter does not want departments to dissolve or lose their identity, rather work together more efficiently.

Pelletter also noted at a recent meeting that Bullrock Renewables, a solar energy system company that operates the Angell Road and Hanover Road solar projects, recently made a donation to the Silver Creek Fire Department to assist with the purchase of emergency equipment.

Also of note, the Forestville Fire Hall will host a visit with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 21 from 6-8 p.m., presented by the Fall Festival Committee and the Forestville Fire Department. Hot cocoa and cookies will be available, as well as arts and crafts. Hot dogs and hamburgers will be for sale by local scouts.

Additionally, Imagine Forestville will be holding its annual First Day Hikes event at the Forestville Hiking Trail from 1 until 3 p.m. on New Year’s Day. Hot cocoa and s’mores over a portable fire pit will be offered. The event is in conjunction with the National State Parks’ celebration of hiking trails and historic sites throughout the state.