In a recent meeting of the City/County Fire Tax Committee held on September 4, 2025, in Bradley County, Tennessee, local officials gathered to discuss the implementation of a fire tax agreement established earlier this year. The meeting, attended by key figures including county and city fire chiefs, mayors, and commissioners, aimed to clarify the logistics surrounding a growth boundary agreement that was approved in April.

The primary focus of the meeting was the formation of a six-person fire tax committee, as outlined in the growth boundary agreement. This committee is tasked with determining how to compensate the county for any loss in fire tax revenue resulting from property annexations that occur between the old and new urban growth boundaries. The agreement stipulates that the city will make direct financial payments or establish fire service coverage agreements for a defined period, specifically for one year following any annexation.

During the meeting, the committee members discussed the need for a clear process to implement these financial arrangements. The county fire chief, county mayor, and city officials emphasized the importance of establishing a methodology that ensures the county is held harmless from financial losses due to annexations. The discussions highlighted the collaborative effort required between city and county officials to address the complexities of fire service funding in light of changing urban boundaries.

As the meeting progressed, the committee acknowledged that while the agreement provided a framework, further details regarding the execution of these financial arrangements were still needed. The committee's recommendations will ultimately be presented to both the county commission and the city council for approval.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing collaboration between city and county officials to navigate the implications of urban growth and ensure adequate fire service funding. As the committee moves forward, the community will be watching closely to see how these discussions translate into actionable plans that benefit both the city of Cleveland and Bradley County.