So Much for Consolidation

http://www.tribdem.com/local/local_story_296001139.html

This article says a lot. As a supporter of municipal consolidation where practical and intergovernmental cooperation as a necessary means of survival, the easy reaction here would be to chastise Shade Township's decision in this case. However, after reading the article and considering all the facts in this case I have to support Shade Township's decision 100%. The best chance for intergovernmental cooperation and possible consolidation is having the strongest entity take the lead. Shade has the population and they have the money. With Richland's help (why doesn't the article state how many miles Richland is from the furthest reaches of Shade Township?) Shade Township should be able to build one of the strongest fire departments in that part of Somerset County which could only help Central City, Hooversville, Shanksville and Stoystown if they let them.