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County, city reach new agreement for fire protection Melodie Phelps News Editor The county and city have reached a new agreement for fire protection, following a special meeting of Wayne County Fiscal Court on Friday morning. The new agreement sets the annual price tag for county fire protection at $100,000, but it also sets up a joint commission that would meet quarterly on the issue. The new agreement, which had been approved by the Monticello City Council earlier in the week, is a continuous contract, which means that the lengthy negotiations which have occurred between the two governments every four years will be eliminated. Either party can opt out of the agreement with a six-month notice. Magistrates agreed, by a 2-1 vote Friday morning, after a lengthy discussion. Magistrates Jerry Sloan and Ricky Worley voted in favor of the proposal, while Magistrate Jess Jones was opposed. Magistrate Wade Upchurch could not attend the special meeting, but he had left a message that he supported the proposal. Sloan made the motion to approve the agreement but noted that he would like to have seen the Susie Fire Department given more consideration in this proposal from the city. ³It seems like they (the City) are giving no recognition to them,² said Sloan. He also noted that the county has taken over the operation of the ambulance service, which provides service to any resident regardless of where they live. He also stated that the ambulance service responds to aid the fire department for structure fires. According to the agreement, the city and the county will each appoint two members to serve on a joint commission. The commission will meet on a quarterly basis with the fire chief to review expenditures and cost of equipment and then make funding recommendations. The agreement notes that the city and the county shall share in any budgetary needs for the fire department. County Judge-Executive Bruce Ramsey said that the committee will help keep everyone informed on the fire protection needs for the department. He stated that Deputy Judge Executive Peggy Edwards will serve on the committee, since she is the countyıs financial officer. The city will appoint City Clerk-Treasurer Greg Latham to the committee. ³I think with this committee it will allow everything to stay updated,² said Ramsey. ³This will serve the people better and any adjustments that need to be made can be done.² In other action during the special meeting, magistrates inspected a truck they were considering purchasing for the Animal Control Officer. They did not take action on the purchase, and requested that the county look for a more fuel-efficient vehicle. Add a comment |
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