The first attempts to get funding for a village water system were made in the 1890's, as part of the effort to provide fire protection.  In 1892 a special election was scheduled to vote on an appropriation for a fire engine, but such strong opposition emerged that the trustees canceled it.  The Savona Review said: "Some of the taxpayers are in favor of a hook and ladder truck, but the indications are that the majority are in favor of depending upon individual fire-fighters with pails, some even asserting that an organized fire company with an engine would be a detriment rather than a benefit in case of fire."