Exciting Developments in Warren County’s Fire Services!
Warren County is poised for some big changes in its fire services, and it looks like they’re taking a step in the right direction! On Tuesday, November 26, 2024, the Warren Fiscal Court met and made some important decisions that will impact how the county’s nine volunteer fire departments operate. With a focus on improvement and safety, it’s clear that the county is dedicated to supporting its volunteer firefighters.
New Fire Coordinator Position on the Horizon
First up, the county is moving closer to filling its brand-new Fire Coordinator position! This role will not only oversee operations but will also suggest changes that could streamline how the volunteer fire departments function. County Judge-Executive Doug Gorman announced that the county is almost ready to welcome a new coordinator, having made an offer to a gentleman who is expected to start in January 2025.
This news comes on the heels of some solid recommendations from the consultancy group MissionCIT, which was brought in way back in 2023 for a thorough analysis of the area’s fire services. The county spent $48,300 on this study, which found that the rapid growth in Warren County has led to an increase in emergency responses—and, importantly, a greater need for support for our brave volunteers!
As part of the decision to invest in this new position, the Fiscal Court also approved spending $9,052.48 for personal protective equipment (PPE) from Louisville-based Fire Department Service and Supply. This means that the new coordinator will be able to hit the ground running with all the necessary gear as soon as he starts.
Plans for the Future
Gorman shared his enthusiasm about bringing this new coordinator on board: “This is someone who will work with all nine fire departments and give direction to the fiscal court on following through on suggestions from our fire department survey,” he said. “He’ll start assessing everything from equipment to potentially a hybrid arrangement with some paid and some volunteer firefighters.” Sounds like there are some innovative ideas on the table!
This is just the beginning, as Gorman emphasized that filling this position was an important first step toward making necessary upgrades in the fire departments across Warren County. It’s clear that they’re looking to the future of firefighting in the area!
Cleaning Up the Barren River
But wait, there’s more! The county isn’t stopping at just hiring a new fire coordinator. On the same day, they also approved some funding to take care of another important safety issue. Warren County Emergency Management will be spending $17,460 to Scotty’s Contracting to retrieve 12 vehicles that had been abandoned in the Barren River, plus $4,675 to Walker’s Towing for towing those vehicles.
This initiative arose after the removal of the Barren River Lock and Dam No. 1 in Greencastle back in 2022, which caused the water levels to drop and resulted in these abandoned vehicles becoming visible. As Emergency Management Director Ronnie Pearson noted, “These vehicles are a hazard that needed to be removed.”
Safe Rooms Being Built
In addition, Pearson also received approval for $50,000 for architectural services from Sewell and Sewell to design safe rooms at the Browning Ballpark and the Richardsville Volunteer Fire Department. These safe rooms will enhance safety, especially in light of the damage caused by the December 2021 tornadoes. It’s fantastic to see these measures being put in place to protect the community!
What’s Up Next?
Finally, Bowling Green-Warren County Drug Task Force Director Tommy Loving submitted a request to declare 11 vehicles and various pieces of office equipment as surplus property. These items were seized in drug arrests and will be put up for public auction on December 13 at 1 p.m. right outside the county courthouse—mark your calendars!
The Warren Fiscal Court’s next meeting is scheduled for December 5 at 9 a.m. in the county courthouse, so stay tuned for more updates on these exciting developments!
