2 county fire districts approve fees
RUSSELLVILLE — Voters in the Belgreen and Frog Pond fire districts approved new fire protection service fees May 19 with both measures passing by wide margins.
In the Frog Pond district, the measure passed with 73.86% of the vote, receiving 130 “yes” votes to 46 “no” votes with five of six precincts counted.
In the Belgreen district, the measure passed with 86.45% of the vote, receiving 185 “yes” votes to 29 “no” votes with three of four precincts counted.
The measures will add a $3 monthly fire protection fee to property tax payments for residents living in the two districts. The referendums appeared only on ballots for voters within the affected fire districts.
Belgreen Volunteer Fire Department Chief Donald Taylor said he was thankful for the support shown by voters.
“I think it will help us bring in more funding. I’m proud that the community voted for it,” Taylor said.
Officials with both fire departments have said they are struggling with rising costs for equipment, fuel and daily operations.
Taylor previously said Belgreen relies heavily on fundraisers and voluntary household dues to continue operating. He said only a portion of residents regularly contribute, making it difficult for the department to maintain equipment and cover expenses.
Frog Pond Fire and Rescue Chief Robert Shook Jr. said the department is in need of updated firefighting equipment and turnout gear for firefighters.
“It helps us where we can actually get equipment,” Shook said. “All of our equipment is outdated. I mean, I don’t have any equipment for the firefighters right now that’s in my department.”
Shook said the department has struggled to keep equipment current while dealing with rising costs for trucks and emergency response gear. He said firefighters often have to work with expired or outdated protective equipment.
“We’re still struggling, but it’ll help us out,” Shook said.
He also thanked residents who supported the measure.
“We appreciate it very, very, very much,” Shook said. “They just don’t know how much they mean to us.”
