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Commissioners seek $10,000 to fund financial analysis for Bean Blossom/Beanblossom Township fire protection question
Summary
County commissioners asked the council for a $10,000 appropriation to contract Baker Tilly for a financial analysis to clarify costs and service options after a petition to move Bean Blossom Township into the Monroe Fire Protection District prompted public questions; council approved 5–1.
Monroe County commissioners asked the council for a $10,000 appropriation to hire Baker Tilly to produce a financial analysis and informational materials for residents of Bean Blossom/ Stinesville Township, following public concern after a trustee petitioned to add the township to the Monroe Fire Protection District.
Angie Purdy and a county staff member said that a public hearing last fall on the trustees’ petition revealed widespread confusion among residents about service options, cost differences and what each fire provider would offer. The commissioners convened meetings with the Ellettsville Fire Chief, the Monroe Fire Protection District chief, the township trustee and other local officials and asked for a neutral financial summary comparing the options.
Purdy said the requested $10,000 would pay for a Baker Tilly evaluation that would lay out the costs and levels of service offered by the two potential providers and be distributed to affected residents. After asking for public comment and receiving none, the council held a roll call vote: Councilor Bridal, yes; Councilor Iverson, yes; Councilor Henry, yes; Councilor Deckard, yes; Councilor Wilts, yes; Councilor Hawk, no. The motion passed by majority (5–1).
Councilors said the analysis should help residents understand tax and service implications before any boundary changes are finalized.
