Greenville and Orangeburg challenge county over disproportionate emergency call costs

The Dearborn County Board of Commissioners convened on May 20, 2025, to address pressing budgetary concerns and public safety issues affecting the county. The meeting highlighted significant financial shortfalls and the distribution of emergency service calls among the county's municipalities.

The discussion began with a review of the county's budget, which totals $1,790,000. It was noted that cell phone fees contribute approximately $813,000, leaving a shortfall of nearly $980,000 that the county must address. The municipalities of Greendale and Orangeburg contribute around $560,000 to the county, which is considered their share of the costs associated with public safety services.

Commissioners pointed out that the county's population stands at 50,679, with Greendale and Orangeburg accounting for 13,210 residents, or 26% of the total population. However, these cities generate a disproportionate number of emergency calls, totaling 16,300, which represents 55% of all calls in the county. This translates to an average of 1.23 calls per resident in these cities, a figure that underscores the high demand for emergency services.

In contrast, the remaining county population of approximately 37,500 residents accounted for only 13,000 calls, averaging about one call for every three residents. This disparity raises concerns about the allocation of resources and funding for emergency services, as the cities bear a heavier burden of calls despite their smaller populations.

The discussion also touched on the impact of traffic and infrastructure, particularly regarding the bridge that connects to Boone County, which has been a frequent source of emergency calls. The commissioners acknowledged the complexities of managing public safety in areas with high traffic and noted the need for a reevaluation of funding and resource distribution to ensure equitable support for all municipalities.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgent need for a comprehensive review of the county's budget and emergency service funding, particularly in light of the significant disparities in call volumes among different areas. The commissioners plan to continue discussions on these issues in future meetings, aiming to find solutions that address both financial shortfalls and public safety needs across Dearborn County.