City, county react to fire services consolidation study
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — A new study suggests the benefits of combining fire services for Wilmington and New Hanover County outweigh the disadvantages. What does this mean for citizens and what does this mean for jobs in the Cape Fear?
Wilmington Fire Department spokesman Batallion Chief David Hines said firefighters should not be worried.
"I mean right now, we're 15 people short, so we certainly aren't going to be laying anybody off," Hines said.
As for the citizens, both New Hanover County and Wilmington fire chiefs say other than a change in uniform, we should not notice a difference.
"They should expect a very professional process, and I think one that has its eye on providing the best value for the money," WFD Chief Buddy Martinette said. "(New Hanover County) Chief (Donnie) Hall and I will work closely together, and both of us agree it is our best interest to work in the best interest of the citizens."
Because the findings are so new, officials from the city and county say it will take months before any action is taken. The study recommends establishing committees to investigate the issue of consolidation.
There will be two public meetings later this month to get citizen input. Wilmington City Council and the New Hanover County Commission will get presentations on the study next month.
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