Fueling Our Firefighters, Ensuring Our Safety

Union County SPLOST: Fueling Our Firefighters, Ensuring Our Safety

The Cornerstone of Community Safety: Union County's Exceptional Fire Department

In the realm of public safety, few elements are as pivotal as a well-equipped and responsive fire department. Union County, Georgia, stands as a testament to this, boasting a fire department that is not just a service but the backbone of the community's safety net.

The Role of Union County Fire Department: Beyond Fighting Fires

The scope of the Union County Fire Department's responsibilities extends far beyond extinguishing fires. They are the ultimate first responders, attending to a variety of emergencies - from car wrecks and motor vehicle accidents to complex search and rescue missions. This is especially significant considering Union County's unique geographic feature: it houses more Appalachian Trail than any other county in Georgia, approximately 39 miles. This attracts numerous visitors, some of whom may find themselves in distress due to various hiking mishaps.

A Multifaceted Emergency Response System

Union County's Emergency Operation Center is a hub of coordination and response, integrating various departments such as public safety, the sheriff's department, road department, and animal services. This synergy is crucial for effective management of emergencies, especially in the challenging terrain of Union County.

The Crucial Role of SPLOST in Supporting Our Firefighters

The financial aspect of maintaining such a robust fire department cannot be overstated. The cost of equipping a single firefighter and the necessary apparatus, like a ladder engine, can reach millions. This is where the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) becomes vital. Without SPLOST funds, the burden of these expenses would fall heavily on homeowners through increased property taxes. SPLOST, thus, serves as a lifeline, enabling the purchase of essential equipment and vehicles without overburdening residents.

The Non-Negotiable Need for Quality Fire and Union County Emergency Management Agency Services

In the debate of how to fund county services, the reality is stark for services like the fire department and EMS - they are non-negotiable necessities. SPLOST offers a feasible solution, ensuring that our firefighters and emergency personnel have the resources they need to operate effectively and keep Union County safe.

Union County's Pride: A Top-Tier Fire Department

The pride of Union County shines through its fire department, hailed as one of the best in Georgia. The support from SPLOST not only empowers these heroes but also reinforces the community's trust and safety.

In closing, the Union County Fire Department, bolstered by SPLOST, stands not just as a service, but as a symbol of the community's resilience, preparedness, and commitment to safety. It's a reminder that when we invest in our public services, we invest in the well-being of every resident and visitor in Union County.

Efficient and Cost-Effective

Fisher Field Road Bridge Timeline

The entire installation process took only a few hours, and the whole project cost approximately $600,000, compared to the years of construction time and millions of dollars typically required for similar projects.

October 2023

Union County hires Carter Engineering for the due diligence review.

November 2023

Union County hires Geo-Hydro Engineers to perform the geotechnical evaluation.

November 2023

Union County hires Sheats Structural Consulting for the initial structure observations and conceptual design.

December 2023

Contech Engineered Solutions presents Union County with the Big R modular bridge option.

December 2023

Carter Engineering provides the scope of services to Union County.

December 11, 2023

Union County accepts the modular bridge quote from Contech Engineered Solutions.

December 21, 2023

Contech Engineered Solutions submits bridge drawings to Union County.

December 22, 2023

Geo-Hydro Engineers provides the geotechnical report to Union County.

January 4, 2024

Carter Engineering prepares the temporary construction easement conceptual design.

January 26, 2024

BM&K provides Right of Way (ROW) acquisition services.

February 29, 2024

Geo-Hydro Engineers performs materials testing and special inspections.

February 29, 2024

Square Deal Enterprises submits the pricing proposal to Union County.

March 2024

The ROW donation paperwork is signed on parcels.

April 2024

Union County awards the bridge installation contract to Square Deal Enterprises.

May 9, 2024

Contech Engineered Solutions delivers the modular bridge, and Square Deal Enterprises installs the bridge within only a few hours, providing residents of Fisher Field Road with a new permanent bridge to access their homes.