Published: March 26, 2009 08:00 pm      

Countywide services considered in Leelanau

SUTTONS BAY -- Some fire officials in Leelanau County contend a countywide fire and emergency services authority would boost efficiency and quality.

But start-up costs could be a taxing concern.

Over the past year, a group of township, county, fire and EMS officials have explored ideas for a countywide system. Seven fire departments cover Leelanau County's 11 townships, three villages and seven unincorporated villages.

Not all of the fire departments are participating in the talks, and there's no set time for a decision.

Benefits of countywide fire and emergency services are "more in the level of service than in cost," said Rich Bahle, Suttons Bay Township supervisor and president of the Suttons Bay-Bingham Fire and Rescue Authority. "In terms of what the actual implications in financial standpoint, we don't know enough."

Many departments rely on volunteers or paid part-time firefighters, but it's an aging group and there aren't as many young people available to fill those positions, said Mary Tonneberger, county board chairwoman.

The county board fostered discussions of fire and EMS collaboration, but it's ultimately up to township boards to decide on any changes.

In 2008, townships collected nearly $4.8 million in taxes for EMS and fire services. A countywide system with less equipment and fewer stations but more full-time staff could cost roughly the same as current operations, not including start-up expenses, according to the group's draft plan.

But each township levies different taxes, so a merger likely would increase the amount some townships pay.

"There are (townships) who have decent services now and won't save a lot financially, and some that would have to put in more money, but efficiency and enhancements are far more," said Glen Arbor Fire Chief John Dodson.

A draft proposal calls for nine stations instead of the current 11. It would increase the total number of full-time firefighters and EMTs to 83, up from the 43 full-time employees who currently staff the departments.

Estimates set the current number of volunteers or paid part-time firefighters at roughly 120. The new plan wouldn't eliminate volunteers or paid part-time firefighters, but the need might not be as great with more full-time staff, Dodson said.

Dodson contends response times would improve by having firefighters on hand full-time throughout the county.

But Jim Lautner, supervisor in Solon Township, worries response times would increase if fire stations are moved. He also expects a loss of local control if the townships opt for an authority.

The Solon-Centerville Fire Department has a station in Cedar and contracts to cover Kasson and Cleveland townships.

"People are not upset with the service we have now that I know of," Lautner said. "I'm having a concern with having to pay more taxes without any benefit in these townships."