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Harrison County to solicit bids for outside review of volunteer fire and emergency services
Summary
Commissioners voted to solicit bids for an independent evaluation of volunteer fire departments and county emergency services to determine service gaps, funding options (levy or fee) and potential paid staffing models.
The Harrison County Commission voted June 4 to solicit bids for a professional evaluation of the county’s volunteer fire departments and emergency medical services, saying an independent study is needed to identify service gaps, cost estimates and funding options.
Commissioners and staff cited long‑standing recruitment challenges for volunteers and growing costs. One commissioner said the county cannot sustain services at current levels without exploring new revenue tools — including a dedicated levy or a fire fee — or shifting to a mixed paid model. Staff recommended the scope include a 4–5 year funding outlook and the potential cost to staff weekday daytime coverage in key stations.
The motion approved by the commission directs administration to issue a request for proposals or bids to obtain written proposals and pricing; commissioners will review returned bids before deciding whether to hire a firm. No contract award was made June 4.
Next steps: county will publish an RFP, collect proposals, and return options and cost estimates for the commission to consider prior to any levy or fee decisions.
