William Piwtorak, a member of Liberty Township’s fire department, has been nominated for the John P. Moore Memorial EMS Award for Excellence, administrator Matt Huffman told township trustees this week.

Battalion chief Piwtorak is an emergency medical services and hazardous materials officer in the fire department. He has been a member of the fire department for 21 years.

“It is just an honor to be nominated,” Piwtorak said. “The names on that list are just as capable of winning as me.”

The award recognizes the accomplishments and contributions of Ohio emergency medical responders, technicians and paramedics.

Trustees on Monday also heard monthly administration reports from the township departments.

In the absence Fire Chief Tim Jensen, who is currently on paid administrative leave pending an investigation into his conduct, three battalion chiefs currently share the administrative duties of the fire department.

Piwtorak reported that the fire department is collaborating with Powell police, training on active aggressor and mental health scenarios. “We’ve seen an increase in mental health issues in this township,” he said. “We’re talking about protection of our schools and a lot of other stuff with active aggressor-type training.”

Piwtorak reported to trustees that three houses were donated to the department to be used for structure fire training. “We have three houses that were donated and went through the EPA process that are free and clear of any issues — so you’re going to start seeing smoke,” he said.

The fire department asked for a resolution to be passed by trustees for funds for emergency repairs on an ambulance, Medic 323. The vehicle has a leak in the exhaust system, allowing fumes to enter into cab. “The whole cab of the medic (ambulance) has to be removed from the chassis,” Piwtorak said. “It’s labor-intensive.”

“It’s the oldest in the fleet,” Piwtorak said. “It’s a backup to the fleet.”