Commissioners hear fire department restructuring proposal

CLEVELAND - The White County Commission has been asked to look at a plan that calls for putting paid fire personnel at some county fire stations during daytime hours.

White County Public Safety Director David Murphy presented a proposal to commissioners at Monday's commission work session that calls for putting two people at north and south fire stations and two at the central office.

Murphy told commissioners the move would require hiring three additional trained firefighters and promotion or reassignment of others.

Volunteer firefighter participation has decreased in recent years. Murphy said he sees the plan as a way to fill the protection gap during the time when most volunteers are at their regular jobs.

Murphy also proposed two fire trucks be replaced due to their age and condition.

Commission Vice Chairman Craig Bryant said Murphy's proposal comes after a complete review of the department, requested by commissioners following Murphy's hiring as public safety director in December.

Bryant said commissioners will review the proposal, but he indicated officials are aware some action is needed.

"We're hoping within the next month or two White County citizens can see some real changes in their fire department," Bryant said.