I wonder if it would be possible (or a good idea) to see if the counties would take over the villages fire stations. The villages would pay (at a minimum) the existing wages as fees for fire service, EMT, etc. coverage. The fire fighters, EMTs, etc. would not be county employees, with access to pension plans, 401K, higher wages, etc. The counties would pay the employees the higher wages.
I do admit there might be an increase in taxes (property) but there might be advantages to this approach, but from what I have seen this is not necessarily a concern.
Disclaimer: I was a volunteer fire fighter for 7 years in PA., a long time ago. I have no dog in this fight, but I am presenting as a possible alternative. I have no problem with these people being county employees, as they would still be stationed in the villages, and the villages would still be primary response.
__________________
Pennsylvania, for 60+ years, most recently, Allentown, now TV. 
|