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Commission approves incorporation of Speak volunteer fire district under HB 325
Summary
After public comment from the Speak fire chief, the Lawrence County Commission approved incorporation of the Speak volunteer fire district under House Bill 325 so the district can form its own board and pursue local funding to sustain fire and EMS services.
The Lawrence County Commission voted to approve incorporation of the Speak volunteer fire district under House Bill 325 during its December meeting, a step commissioners described as allowing the district to pursue self-sustaining funding and a locally chosen board.
Gunner Wall, identifying himself as the Speak Fire chief, told commissioners that the department has served the community for decades but now faces funding challenges. "We have no way to fund our organization going forward," Wall said, urging approval so constituents can vote and manage resources locally. He said incorporation would give residents the chance to elect or appoint directors to oversee fire and EMS protection.
Commissioners praised volunteer firefighters and moved to approve the incorporation under the statutory process created by HB 325. The motion was made by Commissioner Burch, seconded by Commissioner P, and approved by voice vote.
County leaders said this model is common in other counties and expected other volunteer districts may pursue similar incorporation in the future.
