Sunset Beach discusses fire truck timing and county fire‑tax options as budget moves forward

Fire department leaders briefed councilors on apparatus timing and countywide funding options during the budget workshop. The department’s ordered aerial apparatus was previously quoted at a 42–48 month delivery; staff said improved production schedules could allow a pre‑build meeting in the third quarter and a possible 2026 delivery, but cautioned this was not guaranteed.

"We signed the paperwork at 42‑48 months, which would put it at delivery date of 2027," the fire chief said, adding that recent conversations with vendors have signaled improved timelines and a pre‑build meeting could take place this year. Staff noted earlier payments would accelerate but would shorten the outstanding payment period.

Councilors and the chief discussed how much fire‑fee revenue covers personnel versus equipment and whether a Brunswick County fire tax might be proposed. Staff explained the current local fire‑fee structure is based on square footage and does not fund capital equipment; a county fire tax could shift the funding model to a property‑value basis, produce more predictable revenue and change how funds are allocated among districts.

Councilors asked whether the town could opt out of a county fire tax and how tax proceeds would be governed; staff said those details are still under county discussion and would determine whether Sunset Beach residents face a new county levy or whether the town could keep a local rate. No formal action was taken; councilors will monitor county deliberations as the budget process continues.