Commission approves interlocal fire captain for ThompsonStation amid debate over cost sharing and unincorporated-area funding

The Williamson County Commission approved an interlocal agreement on July 14 to place an administrative county fire captain in Thompson Station and to split some costs with the town. Commissioner Judy Hester explained the arrangement and commissioners questioned whether Thompson Station—s contribution was adequate and how evolving unincorporated-area growth should be funded.

Hester told the commission the captain would be stationed at Station 23 on Thompson Station Road and "will respond to fire calls, medical calls across the whole county." Connor Scott, who answered commissioners— questions, said the negotiated deal calls for Thompson Station to pay half of the captain—s salary and benefits; the county would provide equipment, including a county-owned vehicle, and cover one-time costs. The total first-year cost listed in the resolution was $300,275.33.

Commissioner Greg Sanford questioned the split and said the town should pay more; Commissioner Paul Webb said he voted against the item in committee because he is concerned about fairness for property owners inside city limits who already pay city public-safety taxes. "How much longer will these subdivisions ... in the unincorporated county?" Webb asked, urging a broader look at funding public safety for growing unincorporated areas.

Commissioner Sanford also noted Thompson Station had agreed to fund half of an additional position for a future station (Burwood Station 25) and to begin contributing to dispatch fees. County staff said the captain will have a systemwide function and an assigned area of expertise that benefits the entire county even when stationed in Thompson Station.

The commission approved the interlocal agreement as amended (a $500 reduction to medical insurance line items) by a recorded vote of 17 yes and 4 no.