On March 4, the Town of Abingdon notified Washington County that effective July 1 the Abingdon Fire Department will no longer run fire-calls as first response agency into their County response area.
During the Washington County Board of Supervisors’ meeting on March 26 Emergency Management Coordinator Theresa Kingsley-Varble introduced a phased Fire Response Plan approach.
The Fire Response Plan will begin April 1 and run through July 1. During this time boundary lines of five fire districts in the county will shift to control more coverage area, up to Abingdon Town limits. To clarify, Abingdon Fire Department will receive notice (toned by dispatch) to provide second due response.
“The safety of the citizens is our priority,” said Chairman Mike Rush. “The County is committed to providing personnel and financial resources in the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget.”
As the Fire Response Plan unfolds, the county has efforts in place for personnel and a future substation to support fire operations. There is funding in the current year budget with additional dollars planned for FY 2025.
“We are responding to less volunteers with more commitment from the County,” says Randy Pennington Vice-Chairman
“This phased approach will prevent a lapse in coverage, providing a continuity of service for the affected areas,“ said Kingsley-Varble. “The protection of life and property is our primary concern. I appreciate the surrounding departments for working with us to provide this coverage.”
The county is committed to the 9,864 citizens and the $871,628,300 in property value in this area of additional coverage. The Fire Response Plan will ensure all citizens are safe and their property is protected. The health, safety and well-being of citizens and visitors to our community is our highest priority.
