Fire department response fee explained
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Editor,
The Polson Rural Fire Board wishes to clarify what it feels may be a misunderstanding by some members of the community. For nearly two years, the board, both past and present, has looked at recovering costs for responses to motor vehicle accidents. This has been on the board's agenda and discussed for the past three meetings.
There are a number of reasons this has been considered. First, the fire department provides a high level of service including use of the latest rescue tools which can cost upwards of $8,000 each. Second, the complete cost of this service has been borne by the local taxpayers, wherein the majority of people utilizing this service are from outside the community and contribute nothing toward it. Third, drivers are paying for this type of service through their automobile insurance which pays the reimbursement charges. Fourth, a number of communities in Montana, including Ronan and Pablo, already have such a program in place.
In light of the foregoing, the board has entered into a contract with a local company to seek reimbursement for costs associated with motor vehicle incidents which is in line with what Ronan, Pablo and other communities charge. However, we want to be clear, that we will not charge for fire response which is already being paid for by members of this community through their taxes. It is our hope that as those utilizing these services help cover their costs, that we will be able to pass these savings on to the community as a whole.
Jack Clapp
For the Polson Rural Fire Board
