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Mills County lifts burn ban after fire chiefs split on risks
Summary
After mixed recommendations from four local fire chiefs and input from the emergency management coordinator that more rain is expected, Mills County Commissioners voted unanimously to lift the burn ban with the option to reimpose it if conditions worsen.
Mills County Judge summarized that four fire chiefs gave split advice on whether to lift the county burn ban — two favored lifting it and two urged caution — and asked for comments from emergency-management staff.
Emergency Management Coordinator David Shaw told the court that more rain was forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday and that green vegetation is beginning to appear in some areas. Officials also raised concerns about muddy conditions and vehicles getting stuck while fighting fires, and one county speaker noted recent wind-driven fires in a neighboring county.
After debate about weather forecasts and operational risks, Commissioner Head moved to lift the burn ban and Commissioner Sullivan seconded. The court voted unanimously to lift the ban, and the judge said he would sign an order and contact the four fire chiefs after the commissioners’ reports.
Officials stressed that the ban could be reinstated quickly if conditions turn dry: "We can put it back on in two weeks if we want to," the judge said during discussion. The court emphasized public-safety caution and continued monitoring of weather conditions.
