LANDIS — The Landis Board of Aldermen approved two measures during its most recent monthly meeting to equip first responders with additional tools for their jobs.

The first piece of equipment is for the Landis Fire Department. Thanks to $7,500 from the Erie Insurance Fire Grant, the Landis Fire Department will be able to purchase a strong arm extrication tool, often referred to as the “Jaws of Life.”

A memo from the town’s finance director said the tool “cuts, lifts and spreads metal, aluminum and wood” and that it “cuts through rebar, chain and two-by-wood.”

Additionally, while being compact, easy to carry and able to fit into tight spaces, the tool has the ability to get under collapsed roofs and to breach walls. 

The Landis Police Department was the second agency to be on the receiving end of a grant. With $7,180 from the Cannon Foundation, the department will be able to purchase five new ballistic vests for police officers.

The grant does not require a match from the town and, according to the finance director’s memo, will play a “crucial role in ensuring the safety of (Landis) personnel as they serve” the community. 

During the meeting, the board also agreed to a partnership with Rowan County to create a series of walking trails through the town. Rowan Public Health Education Program Director Dylan Mott reportedly reached out to partner with Landis to develop the walking map through town. 

Rowan County has been partnering with other municipalities to develop maps to showcase community landmarks, while promoting active living. Landis Parks and Recreation Director Jessica St. Martin described the project as a local walking map through the downtown area to help promote getting outside and healthy exercise.

“They will construct a sign that has the route and will also have a little extra information on there about the town,” St. Martin said. “They are only asking us to help with creating the routes which they have submitted a map already of what they are considering.”

There is no cost to the city. St. Martin said it was all grant-funded through the county. 

“The submitted maps are not set in stone,” St. Martin said. “They want feedback from the town. They just want to know that we want to be in partnership with them before they move forward with it.

The map will consist of the Landis logo, colors, any historical information, and the “Be A Landis Original” slogan. Additionally, it will contain specific health facts regarding walking and accumulated steps. The route is limited to a 1-3 mile radius. The project is estimated to take 4-8 weeks for completion.

The partnership was approved unanimously.