Fiscal Court Talks About Fire Dues Increase
Local Fire Chiefs address Fiscal Court. PHOTO | Rrene Duvall
Lynn Bledsoe
Gimlet Managing Editor
On May 22, 2025, the Fiscal Court was in session.
An increase in fire dues was discussed. Prices have increased for the fire departments with turn-out gear costing over $5,000 per person. All the equipment has increased. The Fire Chiefs asked the Fiscal Court to raise dues from $30 a year to $50 a year. The last ordinance was issued in 2001 to increase fire dues from $25 to $30. This is not a tax, and homeowners can opt out to pay. The average budget per firehouse is $35,000 with the average payment for insurance premiums being $16,000. A set of tires for the fire trucks is $600. Mike Clubb from Kyrock reminded residents that the new Kyrock school will be two stories and there is no ladder truck in the county for that. Judge Exec. Lindsey reminded everyone that the fire departments also respond to medical runs. Clubb stated that Volunteer Fire Departments with the right equipment can help reduce homeowners’ insurance dues. Cory Culbreath from Farm Bureau explained the things needed to improve the ratings to lower insurance premiums, as an example he stated that the Union Light sub-station that was added dropped the premiums.
Tammi Wilhite said she has worked with the Sheriff’s office and in the next year the early tax discount will not apply to the fire dues. Residents will still receive the discount, but it will not discount the fire dues. Magistrate TJ Massey asked for a committee to look into other issues that can be of benefit to the fire departments.
In the road report, Joe-Joe Montgomery stated the mowers were out. The South side has been mowed once, and they are moving to the North side. He plans to start blacktop work this week. Mt Zion area still needs ditch work completed, and Montgomery said he is still looking at hiring someone for the mow crew.
In the Jailers report, Jailer Todd Vincent stated at the time there were 16 inmates.
Cody Stewart gave the Parks and Rec report. Little League Volleyball forms went out through the schools. June 27, 2025, will be Freedom Fest at Chalybeate.
In new business, the BGWC April Shelter Directors report was acknowledged.
The County surplus list was approved, but Treasurer Tammi Wilhite said there was time to add other items still.
Approved the Fiscal Year 26 Pre-approved recurring expenses.
The Fiscal Court approved Ordinance EC25-15 Fiscal Year 26 County Budget, first reading.
The Fiscal Court then approved to schedule the CRA/LGEA hearing for June 9, 2025, at 3:45 pm. The hearing for V. Sanders Road was set for June 8, 2025, at 3:30 pm.
The County vehicle policy was discussed. A committee was formed to make sure everything was legal and covered. Magistrates Mickey Johnson, Mark Meeks, and County Attorney Adam Turner will be on the committee.
In Judge updates Judge Exec. Lindsey brought forth the issue of a new automobile for the Jailer’s department. Mickey Johnson stated his opinion was not to spend any money on the 2007 Ford Explorer. A list of repairs that were needed was listed as a transmission, exhaust system, two hub bearings, two rear tires, brake work, air conditioner and there was a large amount of rust.
The next Fiscal Court meeting will be on June 9, 2025, at 4:00 pm in the upstairs courtroom.
