Bradley County discusses fire marshal role amid rising brush fire incidents

The Bradley County Budget Hearings held on April 10, 2025, focused on critical discussions regarding the county's fire and rescue services, particularly the need for a full-time fire marshal. The meeting highlighted concerns about the rising number of brush fires in the area and the implications of having a part-time fire marshal managing inspections and investigations.

During the session, officials discussed the current arrangement where a lieutenant fills in for the fire marshal position, primarily working overtime. Questions were raised about whether a dedicated full-time fire marshal could help reduce the frequency of fires, especially given the significant number of brush fires reported in the county. The fire chief acknowledged that while prevention efforts are ongoing, having a full-time fire marshal would be a substantial asset in managing fire safety and prevention.

Commissioners expressed gratitude for the fire chief's leadership and responsiveness to community concerns. There were also discussions about the broader implications of county staffing and the potential need for a consolidated maintenance facility to streamline operations across various departments, including fire and rescue.

The meeting concluded with commendations for the fire department's efforts and a reminder of the dual role of fire services, which includes rescue operations. As the budget hearings wrapped up, officials emphasized the importance of continued support for fire and rescue services in Bradley County.