The Southtown Star recently published an article highlighting another fire district struggling to secure additional funding.
Bob Tutko, the chief of the Homer Township Fire Protection District, shared some sobering news about the challenges his department faces. Illinois allows antique vehicle plates for cars and trucks that have been on the road for over 20 years, but Tutko is considering getting one for the district’s aging tanker truck—if it lasts much longer. Replacing the 19-year-old vehicle was part of a proposed $4.7 million bond sale that voters rejected last week. The funds would have also covered repairs at the district’s three stations.
Tutko explained that much-needed upgrades and equipment purchases will now have to be delayed. The district may need to cut costs in unexpected ways, like stopping free child car seat checks, which require hours of training for staff. “Things are breaking faster than we can afford to fix them,†he said.
The local economy has taken a hit, with property values dropping due to the recession. Over the past few years, the district has lost $2 million in property tax revenue. Without voter support, the district is limited in how much it can increase its tax levy, Tutko added.
The economic downturn also affected plans for a major mall near U.S. 6 and Cedar Road, which would have brought significant tax revenue to the area. Condominiums and apartment developments were also planned along Cedar Road. Now, those opportunities are on hold.
In Homer, nearly half of the 20-square-mile district lacks fire hydrants, making the tanker truck essential for firefighting. However, the 3,000-gallon-capacity truck is frequently in the shop due to its age. The district once had two such vehicles, but the second was retired because it was too old. The repair shop that maintains the remaining truck no longer guarantees its work due to the vehicle’s condition.
“It’s basically rotting from the inside out,†Tutko said.
A new tanker truck would cost $325,000, and the district is waiting to find out if it qualifies for a government grant to replace it. The district’s treasurer recommended setting aside $500,000 annually for vehicle replacements, building maintenance, and equipment purchases. But last year, they managed to save only $25,000.
Negotiating a revised firefighters’ contract saved the district $375,000 in overtime costs, but Tutko warned that there’s only so much more they can cut without compromising public safety.
Thanks, Dan.
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