Knox City Council Discusses Fire Territories

John Julien

Trying to be proactive in anticipation of the elimination of township government, the Knox City Council invited John Julien, of Umbaugh and Associates, to explain the formation of a Fire Territory.

As explained by Julien, contiguous areas or townships could form a Fire Territory. The Knox Volunteer Fire Department has an agreement with Center Township and a contractual arrangement with part of Jackson Township to provide fire service. Under a Fire Territory, all property owners in the created district would pay the same tax rate for fire protection. They would also receive a uniform level of service.

No decisions were made on establishing a Fire Territory, but it was apparent that some of the City officials were against a County-run fire department if township government is abolished.

The Kernan-Shepherd Commission has recommended the elimination of township government.