Tamaqua Borough Council will discuss a proposed ordinance Tuesday that would decertify and suspend the East End Fire Company.

Council voted last month to suspend the volunteer fire company as of March 18 and begin the decertification process.

At that time, borough Fire Chief James Connely explained the action was taken because of the company’s “poor” response to emergency calls.

The East End Fire Company issued a statement on its Facebook page Thursday, asking residents to attend the council meeting to show their support.

“We are deeply disappointed by the Borough Council’s recent decision to suspend operations and pursue decertification under what has been described as ‘emergency’ circumstances,” the post noted. “We believe this action does not fully reflect the complexities of volunteer response challenges, including staffing limitations, call timing, and operational coordination.”

The East End noted that while response rates were cited, the discussion did not take into account factors that impact the availability of volunteers.

“These are issues faced not only locally, but across volunteer fire services nationwide,” the East End said in the post.

The fire company also said that its priority is the safety and well-being of the Tamaqua community.

“We encourage continued dialogue that is constructive, transparent, and centered on solutions rather than conclusions reached without full consideration,” the East End posted.

The proposed ordinance names the Citizens Fire Company, South Ward Fire Company and American Hose Company No. 1, as the borough’s officially recognized fire companies.

Also under the ordinance, the borough will recognize two assistant fire chiefs under the fire chief.

It also reorganizes the Fireman’s Relief Fund Association of Tamaqua to include the remaining three fire companies. The association aids members and families in cases of death, sickness, temporary or permanent disability or accident suffered in the line of duty.

The East End Fire Company, in its Facebook post, said it is not walking away from the community.

“The challenges facing volunteer fire service are real but so is our commitment to the people we have served for years. Decisions made in a meeting do not erase the time, sacrifice and dedication of our members. We will continue to stand together, support one another and advocate for a fair and honest path forward,” it noted. “The story of this company is not over, and neither is our willingness to fight for the role we have proudly held within this community.”

The fire company asked residents to “stand by us” at the 7 p.m. Tuesday meeting.