The Statesboro Bulloch Chamber of Commerce has stepped into the ongoing dispute between Bulloch County and the City of Statesboro regarding the fire service contract for the Five Mile Fire District. In a letter sent to its members on Thursday March 27, 2025, the Chamber announced its intention to facilitate a resolution that ensures continued fire protection for residents and businesses within the district.
The dispute centers on Bulloch County's decision to terminate its contract with the City of Statesboro for fire services, with the county planning to assume responsibility for the district by July 1, 2025. This decision has sparked concerns among residents and businesses regarding potential disruptions in service and increased insurance premiums.
The Chamber's letter outlines a proposed plan to bridge the gap during the transition. "After carefully reviewing the available details and consulting with various insurance companies, we have proposed a plan we feel benefits the residents, schools, and businesses in the 5-mile district," wrote Jennifer Davis, President/CEO of the Chamber. The proposed plan suggests extending the city's provision of fire services to the Five Mile district from July 1, 2025, to July 1, 2026. This extension would allow the county to enhance their infrastructure in the district, ensuring a seamless transition when they take over. The chamber proposes during this extension that the city continue to collect the 2.7 mills that residents and businesses have been contributing for a flat 2 ISO rating.
The Chamber also acknowledged the county's recent hiring of 37 fire personnel, a move seen as a positive step towards the transition. However, they expressed significant concerns regarding the current state of Bulloch County's leadership. "This transition brings some concerns for our community," Davis stated. "Specifically, the county currently is in transition with key leadership positions, including a county manager, assistant county manager, HR director, and county engineer."
The Chamber fears that this leadership vacuum could hinder the county's ability to effectively manage the transition and ensure consistent fire services. They also raised concerns about the potential financial burden on residents and businesses due to anticipated increases in insurance premiums. "These increased premiums represent a significant amount of revenue that would leave our community, going to insurance carriers out of state," the letter noted.
The Chamber has announced that they are working to schedule a meeting with both city and county officials in early April to discuss the Five Mile district and work towards a collaborative solution. They have also encouraged chamber members to contact their elected officials to voice their concerns.
“The Chamber is here to support you and will continue to champion our community's interests,” Davis wrote. “Our ultimate goal is to enhance the quality of life for you, your families, and your businesses.”
Click here to read the full letter.
