Martin,

Are you fire only or do you run EMS?

Our county a couple of years ago started to bill for ambulance service via the user’s insurance company. EMS billing monies do have limits on how they can be used (patient care only- ambulances, supplies), but has freed up some monies for the fire side of things.

A couple of years ago the county also started tiered Fire Tax Districts, with one rate for urban and another for suburban, which has helped a little.

We have also added some fundraisers, Sportsman’s raffle, Christmas Tree sales, extra bingo, direct mailing w/ family portrait bonus. We are always looking for ways to raise funds.

Pete