Lynn County approves firefighter pay increase and new volunteer recruitment efforts

In a recent Linn County government meeting, significant discussions centered around emergency services and firefighter support, highlighting the county's commitment to enhancing public safety.

Don Brooks from American Medical Response (AMR) reported a total of 116 calls for emergency services in December, with 60 resulting in transports. This data underscores the ongoing demand for medical assistance in the community, particularly in areas like Pleasanton, which accounted for 42 calls and 26 transports.

Randy Hegweld, representing Linn County Emergency Management and Rural Fire, proposed the hiring of Dale Hayes as a volunteer firefighter for Station 920 in Pleasanton. Hayes, who brings extensive experience from a volunteer fire service in Arkansas, was unanimously approved by the commissioners, reflecting the county's efforts to bolster its firefighting workforce.

A key topic of discussion was the proposed increase in firefighter pay, aimed at attracting and retaining volunteers. The commissioners voted to raise the pay for firefighters from $30 to $35 per call and for fire officers from $35 to $40 per call, effective in 2025. This adjustment also includes an increase in hourly wages for training, which is expected to enhance the financial support for those serving in these critical roles.

Additionally, Hegweld provided updates on the potential establishment of a new fire station in Tanglewood. He is currently assessing the building's requirements and engaging with the community to gauge interest in volunteer firefighting. The Tanglewood board is exploring recruitment strategies to ensure sufficient personnel, with a minimum of six volunteers needed to make the station operational.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the importance of community involvement in emergency services, as the county seeks to ensure that adequate resources and personnel are available to meet the needs of its residents. The decisions made during this meeting are expected to have a lasting impact on public safety and community engagement in Linn County.