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Bill would simplify fire‑district consolidation process and add public transparency, sponsors say
Summary
House Bill 208 would create a statutory process for voluntary fire‑district consolidations, include public hearings and an appeals path, and aim to restore a consolidation option sponsors say earlier law removed. Supporters said consolidation can improve effectiveness and efficiency; some lawmakers asked about levy and representation effects.
A bill establishing a clearer, voluntary path for fire‑district consolidation won committee support after sponsors said current statute makes consolidation difficult.
Representative Mark Sauter introduced House Bill 208, saying the measure "reestablishes an option for districts to consolidate transparently with citizens appeals as a possibility" and directs fire districts to pursue consolidation only when partners are willing. "There's no force or direction to consolidate against anyone's will," Sauter said.
Fire Chief Greg Tominski of Middleton and Star told the committee that districts across the state want a…
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