County Commissioners approved a budget amendment that will require future funding on Tuesday evening during their regular session, one that ultimately hopes to increase fire protection for county residents.
Two firefighters will be brought on full time to help fulfill gaps in daytime coverage in Polk County Fire Rescue, and a part timer will also be hired on to serve as the first to be paid to serve on a regular basis.
PCFR Chief Michael Hanuscin is excited by the opportunity to bring on firefighters.
“It’s a big move for Polk County and a good move for the citizens,” he said. “We hope to increase the efficiency of the department and decrease response times during the daytime hour across the county.”
Hanuscin said once the new firefighters are hired, they’ll be based out of the Fish Creek station, but will be working on a variety of tasks related to their duties and will be around the county during their shifts.
The two new full timers and the part time firefighter will help with coverage Mondays through Fridays from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The additional cost for the hires will increase this year’s budget to $180,000, and the money will have to be accounted for when the Fiscal Year 2025 expenditures are submitted for approval. Tuesday’s increase to the budget does include the cost of salary and benefits for the new hires.
Job postings for the firefighting positions are expected to be available in the coming weeks.
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