October 4, 2007

Need for New Truck Forces Fire Corporation to Raise Dues

With a significant capital outlay looming in the not too distant future, the Scotland County Fire Corporation announced a rate increase for membership in the volunteer fire protection service.

Annual dues for 2008 are now payable at a rate of $30 per property. That price represents a $5 rate increase as approved by the corporation’s board at its annual meeting January 13th.

The board approved the rate hike following a presentation by the Scotland County Fire Department regarding the need to replace the service’s mini-pumper fire truck. The cost of replacing the vehicle is estimated at between $70,000 - $90,000. The fire department indicated the truck likely will need to be replaced in the next year or two.

With 842 paid memberships, the price increase represents an additional $4,200 in revenue for the corporation.

Rates were last increased for the service back in 1999.

First time members pay $50 for a new membership. The annual renewal of the membership will cost $30.

Property in Scotland County located outside of the city limits of Memphis, may receive fire protection from the Scotland County Fire Department with a membership in the corporation. A membership is required for the fire department to respond to a fire at the property.

The fire corporation board consists of president Freddie Henderson, vice president Lewis Martin and secretary/treasurer Staci Dannenhauer. Board members are Wayne Durham, Bob Hunolt, Keith Martin, Mike Johnson, Bud Garrett, Chad Triplett, George Frederick, Wilbur Lohman, Tom Fender and Jack Dannenhauer.