DOTHAN, Ala. — A new task force in Houston County is working to address the growing concerns facing the county’s 17 volunteer fire departments. In the early stages of its formation, the group is focused on finding solutions to issues such as outdated equipment, limited volunteer numbers, and the sustainability of the departments.
The task force, which was established to streamline resources and improve efficiency, met this week to discuss potential plans that could help the fire departments collaborate more effectively. Mark Powell, Director of the Houston County Emergency Management Agency (EMA), is chairing the task force and has been meeting with each department to assess their needs.
According to Powell, the task force aims to build on the existing infrastructure of the volunteer fire departments while addressing the common problems they face. “We take what’s there and build on it. We use what’s there as a foundation, build on that, and continue to provide that service,” he said.
One of the major issues identified by the departments is a shortage of volunteers. Powell emphasized that increasing the number of volunteers is a priority. However, until that goal is achieved, the task force is exploring a plan that would allow departments to assist one another during times of need, thereby enhancing the county’s overall fire coverage.Although this plan is still in its early stages, it must be approved by each fire chief before moving forward. Powell is optimistic that the chiefs will support the initiative, which could help prevent a more costly and far-reaching solution. If the county’s volunteer fire departments are unable to maintain sufficient staffing and resources, officials have warned that a county-run fire department may become necessary.
Houston County Commission Chairman Brandon Shoupe stressed the urgency of finding a resolution, as the creation of a county fire department could place a significant financial burden on local taxpayers. “The worst thing that could happen is for us to get to a point where we need a county fire department. It will easily cost taxpayers $13 million,” Shoupe said.
While the task force works to develop a sustainable plan, Powell remains hopeful that the collaborative approach will lead to a solution that both maintains effective fire services and avoids the costly formation of a county-run department.
