Local firefighters sounding alarm on state bill

Several area departments concerned about potential changes

(INDIANAPOLIS) – Local firefighters are speaking out against a proposed state bill that they fear would lead to major changes in the volunteer fire service.

House Bill 1233 would dissolve township governments in Indiana and a county executive would assume the duties of township trustees.

The bill also states that fire services would be provided in accordance with a county fire protection plan and each county’s EMA director would be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of that plan. 

Local firefighters are interpreting that to mean EMA director's would essentially serve as the fire chief of each volunteer department in the county. 

The Indiana Volunteer Firefighters Association(IVFA)  is voicing concerns, saying the bill could lead to slower response times and less voices heard. 

“Contact your state representatives immediately to voice strong opposition to this bill and protect the safety and independence of our communities,” the IVFA said. 

Several area departments are also speaking out on the measure including the Versailles Fire Department as well as the Oldenburg Fire Department.

“Please help shut this down. This would take away so much funding from so many fire departments including ours. This is not a good bill,” a representative of the Oldenburg Fire Department said on Facebook.

The bill also mandates that incorporated town’s with a population of less than 1,000 people are required to submit annual reports of the services provided and the operating costs. The town would be dissolved by a county legislative body if it’s operating costs exceed the expenditures. 

House Bill 1233 was authored by State Rep. Karen Engleman (R ) who represents Harrison County along with portions of Clark, Floyd and Washington counties in southern Indiana.