Concerns over fire service efficiency and funding took center stage during the Collin County Toll Road Authority meeting on February 17, 2025. A resident from Princeton voiced frustrations about the recent establishment of a new fire department, which replaced the long-standing volunteer service that had been in place for over two decades. The speaker expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of community input in this decision, highlighting the burden of potentially paying for multiple fire services when existing resources could be better utilized.

The resident urged county officials to explore alternative funding sources, referencing a substantial state fund that could be tapped to support fire services without imposing additional taxes on citizens. He proposed innovative solutions, such as discounted fire extinguisher programs, to enhance fire prevention efforts and improve community safety.

While the topic of fire services was not on the official agenda for discussion, county officials acknowledged the importance of the issue. They indicated that a more thorough discussion regarding the Emergency Services District (ESD) petition and the county's statutory requirements would take place in the future, inviting community members to participate in that dialogue.

The meeting transitioned to other agenda items, including the approval of a consent agenda for the Health Care Foundation and the Toll Road Authority, both of which passed unanimously. As the meeting concluded, the focus on fire service efficiency and community engagement underscored the ongoing challenges and opportunities facing Collin County residents.