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Commission approves interlocal agreement with Town of Big Water for fire protection; includes $7,500 annual compensation for EMS responses
Summary
Kane County approved a 2025 interlocal cooperation agreement with the Town of Big Water for structural fire protection and response on state highways, including an annual $7,500 compensation line for instances when Big Water firefighters respond to EMS incidents requiring fire personnel.
Kane County and the Town of Big Water reached agreement on an interlocal cooperation pact for structural fire protection and emergency responses on the state highway within the town’s area. The commission voted unanimously to approve the interlocal agreement subject to signature by Big Water's governing body.
Mayor Schmucker of Big Water told commissioners the town supports the agreement but asked for further discussion about compensation, suggesting the $7,500 annual amount may not cover costs already incurred this year. County commissioners and the sheriff’s office discussed statutory responsibilities; commissioners said the county does not have a legal obligation to reimburse cities for state‑highway incidents but has been providing funds as a pragmatic partner. The sheriff noted mutual aid relationships often require local cooperation even when statutory responsibility is unclear.
The approved motion notes that the agreement contemplates an annual $7,500 payment tied to instances when town fire personnel respond on EMS calls (for example, vehicle extrications using rescue tools). Commissioners emphasized the agreement does not legally require Big Water to respond in every instance, but the funding is intended to make response more equitable.
The interlocal agreement will be forwarded to the town's legislative body for its approval and signature.
