(ANGOLA) - Residents will get their first chance today to comment on a proposed joint fire protection territory between the City of Angola and Pleasant Township.
A public hearing is set for 4 p.m. Thursday at the Pleasant Township Trustee Building, 2510 N. 200 W.
The meeting begins a series of sessions intended to review the plan and gather public input before any final decision is made.
The proposal would combine fire protection services under a single governing board and tax rate, replacing the current contract arrangement in which the city provides service to the township. Officials say the change could create more stable funding, improve efficiency and help both communities afford increasingly expensive equipment such as fire engines, rescue units and ladder trucks.
If approved, the territory would be overseen by a joint board appointed by both the Angola Common Council and Pleasant Township. Supporters say the structure would ensure shared oversight and equal financial responsibility.
However, the proposal has already generated concern online among some Pleasant Township residents. Critics worry the new arrangement could lead to higher property taxes, and others have questioned the timing of the meetings, all scheduled for 4 p.m. during normal business hours -- a time some say makes it difficult for working residents to attend.
Additional public meetings are scheduled for Feb. 24 and March 10, with a final joint session planned for March 23 to consider formal adoption of the territory.
Officials say residents served by either department are encouraged to attend and learn how the proposal could affect taxes, insurance and emergency services in Steuben County.