Fire Chief disputes handling of funding discussions with Warren County Board

The Rappahannock County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting on July 7, 2025, addressing critical issues surrounding funding and service provision in the region. The meeting began with a discussion led by a fire chief who expressed concerns regarding recent communications with Warren County, particularly about funding for emergency services.

The chief emphasized that an email he received had been misrepresented in discussions with the Warren County Board. He clarified that the email did not indicate a refusal to provide services, contrary to claims made at a recent town hall meeting. He underscored his legal responsibility as fire chief, stating that he is ultimately accountable for emergency response decisions.

A significant point of discussion was the funding arrangement with Warren County, which is set to end on October 1, 2025. The chief urged the board to ensure that funding continues until that date, highlighting the importance of maintaining service levels during the transition. He presented a timeline of events and communications to provide context for the board and the public, expressing disappointment over the lack of transparency from Warren County officials regarding budget allocations.

The chief also raised concerns about disparities in pay rates for part-time emergency responders between Rappahannock and Warren Counties. He noted that Warren County's rates were significantly higher, which he believed warranted a reevaluation of their own compensation structure. He called for more open dialogue with Warren County officials to address these issues collaboratively.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for questions from board members, indicating a willingness to engage further on the matters discussed. The board's next steps will likely involve continued discussions on funding and service agreements with Warren County, as well as addressing the pay equity concerns raised by the fire chief.