The budget committee engaged in an extended discussion about county financial support for repairs to volunteer fire department vehicles and pumps. Several recent repair invoices were presented, including two bills totalling about $4,949.15 that county staff said had already been paid by the department; the county’s share under past practice would be roughly 75% and the city or department roughly 25%.

Commissioners and staff debated the risks of setting a broad reimbursement policy, with multiple members warning that ad‑hoc reimbursements could “open a can of worms” and create ongoing obligations. County Emergency Management Director Matt McBride and Finance Director Chad Markham said the county has provided pump‑testing services and limited financial support previously, but members stressed the need for accountability—specifically that departments use county‑provided pump testing and preventive maintenance before seeking reimbursement.

On a specific request from the Dole Volunteer Fire Department (City of Dole), the committee voted to table reimbursement pending additional information and input from Dole officials. Committee members asked staff to obtain the city’s contribution details before returning the item.

Separately, the committee approved a motion to allocate up to $5,000 to begin teardown and diagnosis of the Hickory Valley engine/pump — the first step to determine repair cost — to be funded on a 75/25 split consistent with prior practice. Commissioners said the $5,000 cap covers initial teardown and inspection; any larger repair estimate would return to committee for further consideration.