EDITORIAL: Meeting on regional fire protection is good step
It's disappointing to see that not every municipality has committed to attending yet, and here's hoping those representatives come to the table.
If you have mixed feelings about regionalizing services, think of
Fire destroyed his
Don't misunderstand: Masewicz praises the
But when it comes to discussing regionalizing fire service, he says: "I totally back the idea. Regional fire safety makes a lot of sense."
He's a businessman who understands the economies of scale that regionalization could bring.
But he's also conflicted like many who live outside of
He likes his lower tax rates. He likes the country feel. He doesn't want to see
"I'd hope there's no step toward annexation but a step toward safety," he says.
More safety and lower insurance rates could help offset paying more for services.
But let's start with common sense: As a region, we should figure out the best way to share resources, equipment and expertise to increase public safety while curbing costs.
If your house is burning, you care about quick response, not the name on the side of the fire truck.
Some of the folks at Tuesday's meeting likely will bring plenty of concerns -- as well as baggage -- from annexation fears to a legacy of lawsuits across municipal borders.
That's why meeting is so important.
We should expect that municipal officials in our region make a diligent effort to begin building the trust needed to overcome some of the fractious past.
Whether it's consolidating fire and police, municipal courts or transportation solutions, there's plenty of work to be done to achieve some of the economies of scale -- and improved safety -- that Masewicz talks about.
"I believe everything is on the table,"
And it should be.
Let's start by building trust, thinking collaboratively and focusing on the goal of public safety and government efficiency.
The details will be devilish, but the effort is crucial to the growth and well-being of the
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