The Miami County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously Oct. 8 to raise volunteer firefighter pay from $35 to $40 per response, effective Jan. 1, 2026.

County staff told commissioners the increase would apply to volunteer responses, training and maintenance duties in Fontana, Lewisburg and Osawatomie and that the county’s 2024 run numbers indicate the budget can absorb the change.

Staff said there were 463 incidents in the three jurisdictions in 2024; using an average of about 10 firefighters per call, the presenter calculated the per-call increase would amount to roughly $50 and would raise annual payouts to about $23,150, with an additional roughly $5,000 for training and maintenance. The presenter summarized that the total incremental cost to the county would be about $28,150 for 2026.

Commissioner Bridal moved to approve the raise; Commissioner Vickery seconded the motion. The board approved the measure unanimously.

Commissioners who spoke in favor emphasized the financial value volunteers provide to the county and the community service volunteers deliver.