Old Westport Road resident Terry Pimental has lived in Dartmouth for about 45 years, 12 of which were spent as a volunteer firefighter for District No. 3.

Pimental was appointed last June to fill a Prudential Committee opening, and must run for re-election to keep his seat.

"I just like to stay involved, you know, with the guys," said Pimental. He said he retired from his volunteer position when he "realized it was for young guys," but has more than 20 years experience with the Paskamansett Engine Company, a nonprofit association comprised of current and former Fire District No. 3 members.

While Pimental spent more than 30 years running his father-in-law's garden center, Figueiredo's Greenhouses in Westport, the 68 year old now drives a Council on Aging van to pass the time.

"I love it. Those old folks are so nice," said Pimental, considering himself a senior as well. He also has a motorcycle, which he recently upgraded. Pimental has been riding motorcycles for 50 years, he said.

Pimental's interest in the fire department is not independent of his sons' involvement. Corey Pimental serves as a department captain, while Craig Pimental is a volunteer firefighter on top of his position as Dartmouth Police canine officer.

"I want to make sure [Chief Richard Arruda] and the guys get what they need to stay safe and protect the community," Pimental said. "The safety is important, especially when you've got kids on [the department]."

Pimental is focused on keeping equipment updated for his term. He said the department just invested in a $500,000 engine, which it will have by summer's end, and a new squad car. Additions to the District No. 3 headquarters were completed last year.

"The ladder is going to be almost 20 years old," he said. The National Fire Protection Association recommends that engines be retired at 25 years old.

Pimental is running uncontested for a two-year term. He will serve alongside current Prudential Committee member Bob Zina, who has nine years on the committee.