Fort Oglethorpe officials have stepped up their financial support to keep the Post Volunteer Fire Department afloat, but the agreement is temporary.
During the 90-day increase of monthly funds to $31,667, Post board members — who provide most of the city’s fire services — will discuss how to fix the department’s funding woes permanently.
But nothing will be put in place until Catoosa County officials decide whether to consolidate the city and county fire departments, said Gary McGhee, Post board member and battalion chief.
“Sooner or later, they’ve got to give us an answer,” Chief McGhee said.
Although Catoosa officials have said they want to consolidate, they have moved slowly. County commissioners in February still had no answer to the city’s September request for information on how Catoosa could afford the consolidation, said Fort Oglethorpe City Councilman Louis Hamm.
After that meeting, city officials voted 3-2 on Feb. 22 to provide more funding for Post, Mr. Hamm said. The money comes from city’s fire department funds and a contingency fund, he said.
County Commission Chairman Keith Greene said Wednesday that the response still is being discussed, but the county is working on a proposal.
“We should have something submitted shortly,” he said.
County Manager Mike Helton is meeting with several officials this week to discuss the financial details, Mr. Greene said.
Mr. Helton did not return calls seeking comment.
Chief McGhee said Post board members will discuss three options for services to the city — align Post with the city’s fire department, give Post sole control of fire services or a merger if the county presents a plan that Post officials approve.
“Are we opposed to consolidation? No,” Chief McGhee said. “But it’s got to be a good fit for our members and the people we serve.”