Local News - July 2002

Fire marshal lists new fee changes

By ALICE SMITH, LTN Staff Writer

July 1, 2002 - The Lincoln County Fire Department is making it less expensive for county residents to follow the rules.

County Fire Marshal Mike Futrell presented a list of proposed fee changes to county commissioners at their May 17 meeting.

Futrell noted that the new fire prevention and protection ordinance came into effect six months ago, resulting in the desired fee changes.

The ordinance is an educational tool to make the county safer, he said.

When problems arise, fines will be used as a last resort, unless the problem is life-threatening.

“We’ll work with people and give them the opportunity to comply,” Futrell said.

No fire department fees went up as a result of the new ordinance.

“In times when most departments are asking to up on their fees, I am asking to go down on some of them,” Futrell said.

Fee changes range from a 50 percent cut to elimination.

Included in the fee list are:

·  Clearing of lots to build houses: cut from $50 to $25.

·  Fumigation and thermal in-secticide fogging: cut from $100 to $50.

·  Special assemblies such as gun shows and craft shows: cut from $50 to $35.

·  Tents and canopies: three classifications, each cut from $50 to $25.

·  Day care center service and inspection (21 or more): cut from $50 to $25.

·  Family care homes and fos-ter homes service and inspection: cut from $25 to no charge.

·  Inspection of storage tanks and pipes used for flammable or combustible liquids or hazardous materials: cut from $150 to $50.

The reduced fees will still cover fire department operating expenses, but will offer some re-lief to county residents.

“They will save the citizens some money,” Futrell said.

The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the changes June 17.

© 2001 Lincoln Times-News  

Terms and Conditions