Changes for the Brandon fire department
January 22nd, 2008 by 
colson
The Brandon fire department approached the city about setting up a fire district and raising additional funds to support the department. The city suggested that the fire fighters instead become a city department. What would be the better approach or do you think things should stay as they are?
Posted in Uncategorized | 
January 22nd, 2008 at 11:17 am
I feel that the Brandon Fire Dept should stay seperate from the city, I see the city using this as a way to get more money. To me it seems that the fire dept is doing pretty good without the city. And if it only cost me $65.00 on $100,000 property for fire protection so be it. Brandon Fire is the best of the best in firefighting, you can ask anyone in the state and they will say the same. Lets keep that going and not get the sly-city council involved. They will screw the Dept over some how
January 22nd, 2008 at 12:15 pm
I honestly don’t see any immediate benefits to having the fire dept. becoming a city entity. This is sounding like the ambulance situation all over again. We have a perfectly good service provided by a perfectly good server. Why do we need to muddle this situation that is going well for us. I haven’t heard any complaints about response times for the fire trucks.
January 22nd, 2008 at 12:58 pm
I dont have any answers to the very important issue that the Fire Dept is having. However I for one will be very vocal about not raising anymore taxes in our city! We raised them for Robert Bennis Elementary, we raised them for this new school bond, the price of gas is high, the price of everything is going up and our salaries have not kept up with inflation. I am against raising taxes. I think that the Fire Dept needs to create a committe and explore other options. I would check to see if there are any Federal Grants. I would think that there has to be something under homeland security. Please do not think that I am not supportive of our Fire Dept. I believe they are top notch and I appreciate everything they do. I just think enough is enough when it comes to raising taxes on our homes.
January 22nd, 2008 at 1:18 pm
Yep, If you thought the ambulance issue got heated watch this one!!!!!
The city taking over the operation of the Fire Department. That would mean that the leader of the department would have to become members of the GOB club in order to get things they want.
If they stay indipendent, it will come to a vote.
Either way taxes are going up. Based on the $65 per $100,000 plus the raise for the school, a $200,000 house should be about $425 higher tax than Sioux Falls. This with a recession barking at our heals, good luck getting a ballot issue to pass.
What a mess this is going to become.
January 22nd, 2008 at 1:22 pm
It would be interesting to know how the fire dept. determined they need $400,000 to $500,000 per year, especially since they now survive on what the Argus reports as $198,000 from the city, county and townships, and whatever they fund raise. Alica, is there a line-item list of what they would use the money for? The school bond issue just tacked on I believe $114 per $100K, and now we may be asked for another $65 per $100K for the fire dept. For the owner of a $200K home in Brandon, I believe that is an additional $358 per year. While I believe good fire protection is critical and I support the BFD, I agree with #3 in that with the most recent school bond issues and the county commission doing opt-outs for every whim, you have to draw the line somewhere. And I have doubts that the city would lower our taxes by $132K should the BFD create their own taxing district.
January 22nd, 2008 at 1:37 pm
Does anyone know what it cost to run a fire dept? Trucks cost $300,000+, equipment is not cheap, I heard one time that a firefighter complete uniform cost almost $800.00. Brandon is becoming a big town, the fire dept is going to need new and bigger equipment to meet the needs of the structures that are being built. I also heard that the city does not give any money to the fire dept for city growth.
I think instead of the Fire Dept raising our taxes, they should write up a contract, hand it to the city and say here is what its going to cost the city for Brandon Fire to protect it, if the GOB club dont like the price then tuff, call Splitrock!! The Fire Dept seems to be getting screwed by the city, they need more money, there is not enough grants out there to fully fund a dept. Grants are out there to get help with truck purchases, where they pay 80% and the dept pays the remaining 20%…
I think we should let the Fire Dept hold some public forums and lets hear what they have to say NOT what the News media is saying, they seemed to twist words sometimes.
January 22nd, 2008 at 2:10 pm
A question…Does the BFD cover an area larger than the actual city limits of Brandon? On occasion I see fire trucks and tankers leaving the “official” city limits.
So, how does that work with taxing the citizens of Brandon but others receive service for zero cost. I am thinking we need to make sure that all of those who are likely to receive services are sharing in the cost of those services.
January 22nd, 2008 at 2:31 pm
Brandon covers the following area:
West: EROS Highway
North: 257th or 256th Ave?
South: Basically Robert Bennis School
East: Beaver Creek Highway
So yes they do go out of town and yes people out of town will pay, its the township that pays not just the city limit residents.
January 22nd, 2008 at 2:53 pm
Thanks Red for the info. I am still confused though (seems to be normal lately - haha). If the city does “take on” the BFD, are you saying the township pays? The city council can make townships pay?
Another question, I am sure someone knows. Where does the BFD currently receive funding from? I know they do fundraisers but that cannot even come close to covering costs.
I am just trying to understand things before forming an opinion. Thanks in advance for any information!
January 22nd, 2008 at 3:08 pm
#9..
Per Argus leader website:
City: $52,000 operating expenses
City: $80,000 for building payment
County: $50,000
Township: $16,000
I just hope the citizens of Brandon let the Fire Dept. have a public forum, to let them discuss any concerns we may have
January 22nd, 2008 at 3:16 pm
Don’t forget folks. The City and the BFD are already linked together in many ways, financially and otherwise. First, the subsidy the City provides to the FD for their operation. Second, the City owns and is financing the beautiful new building over on Sioux and Redwood…even if the FD likes to “forget” that little fact. It would be the BEST thing in the WORLD for the BFD to incorporate with the City rather than try to continue to scrip and scrap for their on-going budget. Finally, no offense intended, but “best of the best?” Give me a break. That’s a pretty bold statement considering how many brave and dedicated men and women do the same job all over the State. I’m sure they’re not offended by your remarks either.
January 22nd, 2008 at 3:42 pm
I still say that the Fire Dept would take a step back if the city had a say in everything the Fire Dept did. Everytime that the dept wants to buy a piece of equipment they would have to go to the city, what does the council know about firefighting equipment? NOTHING. Everytime they wanted to appoint an officer it would have to go through the city, does the council know how much knowledge one has on fire and who trust who in life saving circumstances? NO.. Its hard for me to beleive that the members of the fire dept would want the city to have any say in their operations. To me it seems the group of 40+ knows each other, trust each other, and are damn good at what they are doing on their own. Y
Also, wont taxes go up anyways? even if the city and FD combine? Where will the city come up with the extra money needed to support the dept? they will have to raise taxes.
January 22nd, 2008 at 4:01 pm
I hope there is a public forum, even though the council doesn’t like to talk about issues in the open. It is going to get expensive to live in Brandon.
January 22nd, 2008 at 4:13 pm
Red asked what the council knows about firefighting?? What did the council know about writing a new ambulance ordinance? Our council thinks they know EVERYTHING.
Here we go again with the Karber quotes. (the one who said there was only $500 left over in this years budget) He says they will get city benefits?? who are we talking about, every member of the VOLUNTEER fire department? Are you kidding me? What a sweet deal that would be, my benefits cost $1200 a month between me and my employer. There are many people that work full time jobs that don’t get benefits.
Brandon is trying to compete with Sioux Falls and we are going to tax ourselves right into the ground. I will not pay $400 more a year, I will move.
The fire department has been around for enough years running in the black. If they can’t do it now somebody’s spending too much money.
Why in the world do we need a ladder truck? How many really tall buildings do we have?
January 22nd, 2008 at 4:37 pm
A ladder truck would benefit Brandon greatly. With the new Hotel, Splitrock square building, and all the new apts going up, that would benefit the firemen greatly, instead of having to go through the ground floor of a burning building they can get right in on the 2nd or 3rd floor, greatly reducing the risk of getting trapped in the fire. I think brandon needs a ladder truck before anything else.
Once, again i believe we should not jump to any conclusions till we have some public hearings with Brandon Fire, the news likes to twist alot of stories. To me it sounds like Brandon Fire does NOT want to combine with the city, they are doing fine by themeselves.
Yes, Brandon has been running in the black for years and years, but the city is continuing to grow and equipment is starting to cost more.. I dont think a VOLUNTEER Dept is out to screw us, they are reg citizens just like us, they have no agenda to make more money PERSONALY. Its all for the safety of Brandon and its people. We have no idea about the expenses and behind the scene stuff of any fire dept.
January 22nd, 2008 at 4:50 pm
Red, it’s time to reveal the behind the scene stuff it sounds like.
January 22nd, 2008 at 5:14 pm
If the fire department is going to be a part of the city, do we need full time fire fighters? I don’t think they get that many calls do they? Maybe a way to save money would be to put all emergency personnel in that nice large building they have, police, fire etc. I think the city owns a portion if the new fire hall don’t they? The city hall and offices could use some update and more room; I know that little old police department is small and outdated then they could share the bills? Then they all would be housed in one location. Just curious? More taxes, I’m not for anymore, Brandon is expensive enough to live here already!
January 22nd, 2008 at 5:20 pm
From the article, I gathered the department thought it was a good idea? When asked about incorporating, here was the response…Brandon firefighter Gary Lemke responded, “That would be ideal.”
We said no to a ambulance district, why say yes to a fire district??
Sorry Red, still not buying the ladder truck. We have too few buildings that are multistories to make it worth the dollars. It’s overkill. We have a serious recession looming, it’s a really bad time to be hiking our taxes. Time to start penny pinching Brandon.
January 22nd, 2008 at 5:29 pm
Just a thought for those of us that like to participate in bettering Brandon and particpating in blogging. Let’s not turn this blog into a bashing party. It ruins it for everyone. Instead let’s try to rationally figure this out together! Great solutions will come together if people decide to work together…..DECIDE to work together is the key….
January 22nd, 2008 at 5:36 pm
I don’t like the idea of raising taxes any more than they already are. But if the BFD is there when we need them, I think we should be there when they need us.
January 22nd, 2008 at 5:41 pm
So when haven’t they been there when we need them? When hasn’t the city helped? They are paying for the new building plus 50,000 for expenses.
I’d like to think about it as I would my own budget. I’d like a newer, fancier vehicle that uses flex fuel, but my budget says no. I’ll drive the one I have.
We’ve not heard a single word about the fire department not being able to pay bills. Why all of a sudden?
January 22nd, 2008 at 5:52 pm
Because of the ambulance issue…..
January 22nd, 2008 at 9:13 pm
I don’t know if I like the idea of having a new taxing entity. That’s one more board to run things their way and another election that has to be held periodically to elect the board members. $500,000 a year is a lot of money. It buys a new truck every year. My understanding is that they have two years to decide what the final tax levy will be. What if they decide 2 million a year is needed – who can argue once the district is created? How is the tax levy changed going forward – by a vote of the people or by a vote of the board? I’m sure the public forums will answer all this.
If the issue is one truck, then there must be a better way. If the issue is going to a fulltime paid fire department, then maybe the fire department should be a city department where they have payroll and human resource systems in place. The city also has budgeting and allocation systems in place. I’d rather see the day to day running of the department being done by someone who runs things for a living.
January 22nd, 2008 at 10:11 pm
If the Fire Dept would join the city your taxes would go up regardless!
they would have to get the money from some where and you guessed it the city will raise your taxes!
So pick, you want the city to get more of your money for Fire Protection or do you want the Fire Dept to get the money and Spend the money on Fire Dept Needs.
Harold
January 22nd, 2008 at 10:33 pm
I believe that the Fire dept. needs additional funds, but a fire district is not the answer. As far as the city taking over the Fire dept. The City does not own any fire fighting equipment. They would have to buy it all. Lets See? How much did you say you a truck was and how many does Brandon have? By my last count 8 trucks and a Chiefs Car. And all the equipment on top of that. Brandons Vol dept has done a great job for many years. Let’s let them keep doing it. The City and township just need to give them a little more money. They don’t need to replace every tuck every year.
January 23rd, 2008 at 8:14 am
Here’s a question that I’m sure will draw some fire! Does the current BFD have anyone in their ranks that is capable of administering an anual budget of more than 1/2 million a year??????
January 23rd, 2008 at 8:34 am
I would think there should be someone that could, who is currently doing the budget? I still feel that we need to trust our firemen when they say they need more money. These guys are citizens of Brandon as well and their taxes will increase as well. These guys are not going to profit personally from this fire district, they are just trying to provide the best service they can.
I personally think that the Fire Dept needs to hold a public forum ASAP!!! before people start jumping to any conclusions of this district.
The money is not out there to get new trucks every year, their is federal grants that assist in doing that, the money is for gear and equipment. Remember, if this district goes through the city will no longer pay for the building and the expenses payment they give them..
January 23rd, 2008 at 8:40 am
Why are we all of a sudden worried about property taxes in Brandon?
The city leaders take money out of the budget to replace a Tee box at the golf course of how many dollars without complaints, the city is involved in helping with the hotel and convention business. The city continues to put more money for an assistant to the city admin position and no complaints? The fire dept needs cash just come to the city and the community gets upset.Maybe the leaders in this so called most expense city to live in should review and then eliminate wastful spending to get the people the proper protection they deserve and need.
Maybe take the extra half penny sales taxes and divide that between the fire and police dept.to offset expenses. Maybe take some of that room tax from the conventon center and apply that to a public safety budget.
Maybe take money from the golf course budget to assist public safety?
January 23rd, 2008 at 8:50 am
#28..
GOOD POINT!! Why do we fund a golf course? No one seems to complain about funding a golf course, but when it comes to protecting property we are complaining.. I guess they can make the golf course into an RV park when house’s start to burn down from the lack of fire protection..
You all bitched about not going to talk to Jay about Med-Star, why dont you people go talk to the Fire Dept and ask what the money will be used for, then maybe you will change your minds, I am sure they are not spending it on tee boxes and sod.. They are spending it on Jaws, to cut your family member out of a car or new hoses, nozzles, vent fans, cameras, fire gear, ladders or training.
January 23rd, 2008 at 8:51 am
Who is going to pay for all these tax increases? This town has passed enough tax increases in the past few years, enough is enough. If the fire department needs $65 per 100K on property, somebody needs to step in and see where all the money is going. That figure is absolutely ridiculous. A LADDER truck, get real people. We are a small town, such equipment is not a necessity. This is merely a way for Brandon to once again say we are better than the rest. The fire department is a very professional organization, with some obvious leadership problems the past few years. The last time I looked at the fire trucks they looked fairly new to me. And let me ask this question, just how many fires has the fire department fought the last year? I am not saying we do not need to be prepared, but merely that we should take care of the equipment we have and it will last. As far as GOB Karber saying the fire department should join the city? Where does this idea come from? The city council says a few months ago they want to save 300K by abolishing the police department, and now they want to create a fire department? What kind of a idiot is this guy? I sure hope the voters in his district wake the hell up and elect a new representative. The city only has so much money and there are many issues facing this town the next few years. People will move away, especially since most people live in this town for the schools, and with open enrollment as an option for most kids, it will happen. If you look at the taxes in Sioux Falls they are lower per capita. This is partially because of the population, but also has to do with the leadership on their city council. This community needs to wake up and elect some new leadership. I know I will be voting for the only man on the council with a mind at this time, my ward representative Dan Mostek. I sure would hope the rest of the community would use some judgement at the polls next time. And one last comment, Why exactly does the fire chief on a volunteer organiztion need to be supplied a vehicle? Makes absolutely no sense to me……..
January 23rd, 2008 at 8:54 am
Good question, and the answer might be complicated. Last I heard two very sucessful Brandon business men were on the BFD. But the BFD has a Board of Directors, who authorize most spending (Elected by members). Major purchases require a majority vote of the all members. But who knows if these men are Board members, or would even want the positions. Most cities don’t have people capable of administering a 1/2 million budget. Within the last couple years there has been a turn over of members due to retirements. Different members are now in top positions and in control. They are still providing top notch service.
Which by the way gives this town an ISO rating that is reflected in your insurance payments. Let’s let them do their job, They are doing good. The money problems they currently face are due to a growing community, with little funding increase. And the practices of the old regime.
January 23rd, 2008 at 9:01 am
#30.. Most Volunteer dept have either a chief truck or a command center. To me it seems that the chief rig is first on scene and sets up command. Also, maybe before questioning the practices of our dept you should find out how it is run.
#30 are you a member of the golf course? I hope you are otherwise you are wasting tax dollars on that. How many cities do you know own their golf course? Most courses are private owned.
January 23rd, 2008 at 9:08 am
# 28 - Simple Man , I really like your way of thinking..I commend you .
January 23rd, 2008 at 9:15 am
#30 maybe you should join the BFD and see how it works. Try making some changes from within. By the way depending on the ISO rating Brandon has, a Ladder truck might actually lower insurance rates in the city. Not to mention ladder trucks are used for more than multistory buildings. Brandon does not have any trucks that are not necessary, and would benifit from a ladder. It could replace the older Pumper. Lets leave these decisions up to the experts, and not second guess them.
January 23rd, 2008 at 9:17 am
I called a buddy that is on the FD and he said they respond to 350+ calls per year.
January 23rd, 2008 at 9:42 am
Red, how many of those are FIRES?
January 23rd, 2008 at 9:49 am
I will try to find out.. But, the funding would go to more then just fire related calls. Money would be for EMS calls, Training and rescue operations, not just fire calls
January 23rd, 2008 at 9:51 am
I previously lived in SD community with a population double that of Brandon. They had a volunteer FD with a Chief paid for by the city. Not sure who owned the equipment, etc. I think this is the type of situation Brandon should consider. It is unrealistic to think we could afford to staff a 24 hour, full time fire dept. By the way, the Chief does not have to come from within if no-one is qualified for that position. Someone could be hired.
I am also wondering why, all of a sudden $400,000 - 500,000 is needed. Anyone know the specifics? Seems like a lot of $$$$.
Regarding taxes. The exact same home as mine in SF (same builder, same interior materials, etc) has property taxes that are $530.28 higher per year. We are still less that SF but then again we have don’t even come close to their ammenities.
PS. Red, I am not a golfer but know that MOST golf courses are indeed owned by city municipalities. I do think they should be self supporting though……
January 23rd, 2008 at 10:01 am
Simple man #28, the tee box for the golf course is being paid for by the raise in golf fees. Where is this taking money away from other city budgets?
Red #29, Why do we fund the golf course? Because the city owns it.
Brandon is not alone as a city owned golf course. Here are just a few others in our region.
Elmwood- Sioux Falls
Prarie Green-Sioux Falls
Kuehn Park-Sioux Falls
Lee Park-Aberdeen
Hillsview-Pierre
Lakeview-Mitchell
Memorial Park-Huron
Watertown Muni-Watertown
Fox Run-Yankton
January 23rd, 2008 at 10:13 am
While I support our FD and believe they do a good job, I feel that it’s their responsibility to explain to the taxpayers the need for $500K, rather than as Red #29 says “why don’t you people go talk to the Fire Dept. and ask what the money will be used for.” The school district presented their need for the bond issues via forums and I hope the FD does as well. If they convince me, I will support them. It’s obvious that many people support the FD, but we shouldn’t go forward blindly and just accept whatever they want because they do a good job. They need to justify doubling their budget and raising taxes to support it. With the current economic conditions, people have a right to be concerned about their property taxes.
January 23rd, 2008 at 10:13 am
Again I think that the Fire Dept. needs to research what other options are out there. I know of other Fire Depts. using grants to pay for equipment. In regards to taxes in Brandon, we dont want anymore. We are still paying on Bennis Elememtart and are starting to pay on the new school bond. Do you all think that when they are up that the city will adjust your taxes since these are paid up? I highly doubt it. Everyone has to look at the big picture. It is the cost of living period. Gas, groceries, utilities and so forth. Everything is increasing and I doubt your employers are giving you cost of living raises that are keeping up. 3% will do you nothing when you employer just raised your health insurance prem. 15%. So to the Brandon Fire Dept. and City Council…read my lips…NO NEW TAXES!!!!
January 23rd, 2008 at 10:15 am
Ok thank you for that info.. But the way I see it is people are not complaining about tax money going to a golf course but are mad at a FIRE DEPT wanting to raise taxes. Don’t get me wrong I love golf and have a membership in Brandon. But I also want my property protected and the firemen to be safe.
I also like the point of the ISO rating, looks like in the long wrong it would benefit us to raise taxes now.
January 23rd, 2008 at 10:15 am
#39 this was listed in the legals back in Dec 2007. As far as were the funding is coming from it does not reference whether the money was revenue from the golf course or from the general fund.
January 23rd, 2008 at 10:18 am
I said many of times, that the fire dept should hold meeting to discuss this with us, I think they are in early stages of this and we should not jump to any conclusions yet.. I think the the media has blown this way out of proportion..
January 23rd, 2008 at 10:39 am
Red, the golf course generates their own profit, (they are self supporting) the FD does not. However, I think the GC should be making more than they are.
January 23rd, 2008 at 10:40 am
Simple man #43, I am not sure how it was worded in the legals, but the reason for the raise in golf fees was to help generate the revenue to pay for the tee box.
January 23rd, 2008 at 10:43 am
That is possible but hard to come to that conclusion when you read the line items in the legal.
January 23rd, 2008 at 10:55 am
#20!!!! You said it perfectly!! Yaaah!!
January 23rd, 2008 at 1:43 pm
Fire department representatives have said a number of times that if the department decides to pursue a tax district, they will hold public forums. None are scheduled yet, though.
In a number of issues lately, it has appeared to me as though people assume officials are for or against something, when they are just researching it. I think it’s necessary for the public to be aware of the research process. But to use an extremely simplified example, just because City Hall (or the school board, or the fire department, or the PTA, or etc.) is looking into serving coffee AND tea at their functions, doesn’t mean they’ve made up their minds one way or another about it yet.
Let’s observe and participate in the process and understand that the decision will come in due time.
To #28: The use of the second penny sales tax, and the so-called bed and booze penny tax, are limited by state law. The city can’t just use that money for whatever it wants.
To #30 and others: How big would Brandon have to get before you would consider it a big town? By U.S. standards, Sioux Falls, at 150,000 population, is a small town. However, by South Dakota standards, Brandon, at about 8,000 population, is the 12th or 13th largest town in the state. And people who study growth predict that Brandon’s population will be among the top five cities in the state within 20 years, perhaps as high as the third largest city in the state. When we plan for the future, we need to compare ourselves to cities such as Brookings, Huron, Aberdeen and Vermillion. Not cities such as Dell Rapids and Tea.
To #38: If the fire department were to come under the city umbrella, a paid chief heading a volunteer department might be the way to go, as I know that other cities have taken that approach. City and department leaders should look into that possibility to see if it is something that might work for Brandon.
To #42: When you say you have a membership in Brandon, do you mean you buy a season pass to play golf at the Brandon Municipal Golf Course, or do you mean you are a member of the Brandon Golf Association? Play is open to the public at our city course, so it’s not a club where someone needs a membership. The association is an organization whose members are users of the public course.
To #44: To my knowledge, only two stories have been printed in the Brandon Valley Challenger about a proposed fire district. I wrote one of them. Jill Meier wrote the other, which was coverage of a City Council meeting. No editorials have been printed on the topic, to my knowledge.
Thank you all for your concern and comments on this issue. It will be interesting to see what comes of it.
January 23rd, 2008 at 2:00 pm
#49..
I was saying that I have a season pass to play golf, I was using that as an example that I am not against the golf course.
I agree with you 100% we need to compare ourselves to Yankton or Mitchell both of those cities have paid firemen along with volunteers, its time for some residents in this town to realize we are growing and this is one of those growing pains.
January 23rd, 2008 at 2:21 pm
I hope that the Fire Dept people reading this blog does not take these posts as attacks against there Dept. I believe that we all are very appreciative for everything they do for us!!! My concern is the mere fact of raising taxes again in our city. I believe people havent put pencil to paper and figured out what all of these new increases are going to cost you. I would like to see a committee explore what other avenues there are to help fund new equipment for the Fire Dept. Has anyone done that? Also when you compare us to other cities such as Mitchell and Huron. What is there call volume? I read somewhere on here that the Fire Dept has responded to over 350 calls for service this past year. Has anyone broken down those calls for service? I would bet that the vast majority of calls are for medical emergencies. So how many actual fire calls do they respond to and how many of those where actual fires??? I do believe that our Fire Dept needs to be prepared for major disasters and whatever else may come there way. Again this is not attacking the Fire Dept, it is only questioning what makes sense and what other options are out there.
January 23rd, 2008 at 2:59 pm
I do agree with your statements Alica in post #49 about the rush to judgement.
I do have to point out though, the BV Challenger Headline today states “Fire department may join city”. This infers a much different feeling than, for example, Fire Department and City Research Joining Forces.
Just my thoughts…
January 23rd, 2008 at 3:42 pm
To #52: Understood, about the headline. It’s difficult to explain why things like that happen, but I’ll give it a shot.
The reporter does the research and writes the story. Then an editor reads the story to make sure it all makes sense and there are no big holes in the information. Then the story goes to a person who lays out the pages on the computer. They know little or nothing about the story or the background behind it until they are putting the story onto the page. They are the ones who write the headlines, after quickly reading the story. My point being, the people who write the headlines are a couple steps removed from the source of the information. It’s a shame the person closest to the story can’t write the headline, but the larger any company gets, the more departmentalization occurs.
A lot of factors go into writing a headline. It has to relect the whole story in just a few words. It should have a good, active verb in it. It has to be accurate. It has to fit the space available.
That “available space” part sometimes can be difficult. For example, it’s a big reason some presidents are called by their nicknames. “FDR” is much shorter than “Roosevelt” and leaves room for more words in the headline.
January 23rd, 2008 at 4:35 pm
Alica, #30 here…. I am not doubting the growth this town has or will experience over the next years. I have lived here since I was 2 years old. The biggest issue that I see, along with many others is the poor planning by City Hall. We have streets and an infrastructure that are in some areas in dire need of repair. The problem that I see in our community, and my generation is to blame a lot when it comes to this, nobody wants to wait for anything. We all expect to have a new house the day we start our first job, and that chain of thinking is to blame on society. My parents worked their whole lives and lived in a modest size house with modest accomodations. We have become a society, and in this case a community of, WE WANT IT NOW, AND WE ARE GOING TO HAVE IT, at any cost. Look at the school bond issue, terrible turn out at the polls and the first go around the bond passes. Very poor judgement on the voters of the school district in my opinion. No doubt a few of you will disagree with that statement. I would love to drive a new vehicle, but I am not willing to make the payment each month. I choose to spend that money elsewhere, planning for family trips, paying for kids activities, etc. There are no doubts that we in Brandon would like a lot of things, but we have to draw the line somewhere. My taxes just went up approximately $230 a year for the next 20 years, that is a good chunk of change for a working family that lives on a median income. And my meaning of median is around 50K a year. That may be high or low in some people’s chain of thoughts. The BFD has been a great asset to this community for a number of years. An organiztion that has had outstanding leadership and hopefully that will continue. Lets just think about this and not make any MEDSTAR decisions. Our current city council, in my opinion, is not the council we want seated when it comes to making another spending decision on public safety. They have proven had poorly they can drop the ball too many times.
January 23rd, 2008 at 6:16 pm
Lets remember what the issue is here. We are not talking about golf courses or schools. We are talking about Emergency services. And the Fire dept can’t be compared to either of those (Golf course or schools). Or for that matter the ambulance service. The Fire dept is a privately owned Not for profit entity, owned by the members. The members give up their time when called to provide a service for the community. Would you like to go outside tonight at 3 AM to fight a fire. I don’t think so! (or you would be on the fire dept.) But they do it. They ask for nothing but your support. Let’s give them a chance and see where they want to go, and not just jump to conclusions. Or compare them to leisure time activities or money making organizations. When the Red Cross or Salvation Army needs money, everyone dosen’t get in an uproar. ( I know that dosen’t come out of your tax’s). But the golf course, or even the ambulance isn’t going to show up at 3 in the morning because you smell smoke. These people offer and put their lives at risk to protect the community, you and your property. Let’s see what they want. Before we get carried away. They have done a great job in this community since 1958. Give them some credit, They do know what they are doing!
January 23rd, 2008 at 6:42 pm
I have to laugh when I read the acronym “BFD” because of its other meaning…hahaha!
January 23rd, 2008 at 7:33 pm
In general, acronyms give me the heebie jeebies. As a reporter, I’m required to write out the name of something on the first reference, and lots of times when people tell me acronyms and I ask what the letters mean, I find out that people don’t even know.
I had a heckuva time on the ambulance thread, with all the MS and RM references. Very difficult (for me, at least) to keep them straight.
And the correct acronym for the Brandon Volunteer Fire Department would be BVFD, wouldn’t it?
I no it tks tme 2 spl ut all th wrdz, but it’s important to be understood, too, yes?
Just my two cents.
January 23rd, 2008 at 7:50 pm
I respect the volunteers for what they do and the sacrifices they make. The bottom line is I don’t think a not for profit private company should be able to levy taxes. Taxes make you part of the government. If my choice is a permanent tax or a onetime fundraiser, I’ll take the fundraiser and give more than the first year’s tax levy.
January 23rd, 2008 at 8:26 pm
T & F Quiz;
Did the BFD received a grant for all new bunker gear. (T or F)
Was the old gear useable? (T or F)
Would Sioux Falls FD come out in minutes with an aerial truck if we needed one? (T or F)
Would a volunteer organization that needs money do extra fund raisers? (T or F)
Does the City make the annual $80,000 payment for the City of Brandon’s building that the BFD is in? (T or F)
32 S.D. FD”S received grants last year from $9,500 to $179,075, was BFD one of them? (T & F) http://www.firegrantsupport.com/afg/awards/07/Default.aspx
State, Total Awards, Awards Granted,
South Dakota, $2,192,401 32 Fire Departments
January 23rd, 2008 at 8:31 pm
I agree #58…also to #55 we have said many times that we appreciate the things the fire dept does for our city!!! WE DONT WANT MORE TAXES!!! Also if you think I am going to feel sorry for anyone who volunteered to become a member of this fire dept than your wrong. They volunteered knowingly that they will be called out and subjected to many difficult situations. If anyone of them wants out than they have a choice!!! Its not like they are stuck in a career type situation. #54 you are right on the money in your post.
January 24th, 2008 at 8:22 am
To many times people forget that when these issues get started there are human emotions involved. We all need to take a step back and remember the loved ones in our life. Remember our friends in the community.
Money is the root of all evil, everyone wants it and unfortunatly every needs it to some degree. We all need to keep things in proper prespective when we evaluate just how we allot our money and hopefully we make the right decisions.
The main thing is that we all have to live together, whether its at the bowling alley, church, sneakers, etc.
I’m sure I know alot of those bloging here, in the end we should all remember that we are friends.
January 25th, 2008 at 2:05 am
Has anyone bothered to look at the fact that the operating expenses for the city owned golf course is higher than the operation costs of the police department? Kind of backwards. Typical thought pattern of men. Men are fixer’s. See problem, fix problem. Failing to adequately see the bigger picture and finding all possible solutions to an issue.
I do not mind a municipal golf course, I DO mind the screwed up priorities of this city council. With ALL the local levies of tax increases for the school the county opt out for more deputies, it’s starting to feel like the “Brandon Tea Party” will happen if we get even more taxes levied against the residents. I agree that EVENTUALLY the fire dept should be city employees but just not yet. The city needs to seduce more businesses to bring in those sales tax dollars to help supplement increasing costs of everything. Granted it’s a growing little city, but being primarily residential there is not enough there to fund all this. In a day and age where there is the need for instant gratification rather then satisfaction in EARNING it, does not justify using the fear factor bullying tactic of certain council members to get their way. Why some growth areas can’t be done gradually is a question we should all be asking for the council of men. If the city council would put as much effort into attracting more businesses to the city as they do trying to solve the fricking goose problem at the golf course. It could be a better place for all.
(disclaimer–for those that like to preach from a high horse, i’m not bashing men it’s scientific— studies have proven this trait about men, ie the old addage men are from mars woemn are from venus)
January 25th, 2008 at 8:20 am
Watchdog you are not comparing apples to apples regarding the golf course in my opinion. It is my understanding that the golf course takes in over 1.2 million annually in revenue. How can you compare the two from a business/budget standpoint? This is silly. If you want to question the golf course budget, go do research with other golf courses in our region and compare budgets. I am all for the police department and support them also, but I just get tired of people on here who like to try to cause controversy within city departments. I do not know if it is a jealousy thing or pure ignorance.
January 25th, 2008 at 10:03 am
#63. What would you say would be an acceptable profit/expense percentage for a golf course? Is a 2% profit good in your eyes? If you owned a small business in Brandon do you realize that it would have to gross 1.2 MILLION for you to bring home 24,000? Could your family live on that?
PS..the golf course cleared 26,000 dollars last year, and actually they’ve never broke 30,000. It’s in the city files, if you’d like to look it up.
Now,,,that doesn’t address the FD. But you can’t really compare a non profit service business and a business that’s in the business to make money.
And also, someone earlier stated that the FD was privately owned and owned by the members, I don’t believe that’s accurate. If that was true then the fireman would jointly OWN everything. Non profit doesn’t mean employee owned.
January 25th, 2008 at 12:17 pm
Watch Dog, you have got to be kidding me. You aren’t bashing men? If you have to make that statement to justify what you have written, they you ARE bashing men.
A city owned golf course is NOT supposed to be some profit-mongering operation. The budget is established to break even. Can you imagine the outcry from the public is they read that the municiple golf course made a profit of $50,000, or $100,000? People would feel they have been taken advantage of. The fact there was a $26,000 surplus is a very good sign.
This blog is supposed to be about the fire department, and you have managed to turn it into a debate about men and the golf course.
January 25th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
Sorry to bring up the golf course again on this blog since it is supposed to be about the BFD. But #65 is right on about golf courses (especially municipalities).
I served on the board at a semi-private golf course in Minnesota before moving to Brandon and I can tell you that there are plenty of golf courses out there in our area that are struggling to break even every year. People do not realize the expenses involved in operating a golf course. Food for thought.
PS. I buy a season pass each year at our city course too.
January 25th, 2008 at 1:05 pm
#65 is correct, it only needs to break even and nothing more. The benefits of the golf course are that the out of town golfers will bring tax dollars to the city by stopping at other establishments in town. And if you think that a municipal owned entity should make a profit for the city, then tell me how much profit the library brings in.
January 25th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
It’s only fair that we have controversy with the Fire Department. The police, ambulance now the fire department I guess this town would be bored with no controversy going on imagine the positive things we could do? Maybe find something for our kids in this town to do?
January 25th, 2008 at 3:55 pm
#68 What a fitting statement…(Maybe find something for our kids to do in this town)…who’s job is that??? I cant stand it when people think its the cities responsibility to find something for your child to do. I have an idea…its called parenting, try it. Maybe we should just add an extra $35 to the $65 that the fire dept wants to our taxes and make it an even $100 so that the city can find some entertainment for Anonymous1’s children.
January 25th, 2008 at 5:39 pm
One word: Chores. But that’s a topic for a future thread.
January 25th, 2008 at 7:54 pm
We have a swimming pool, an arcade, parks, a bike trail, community ed classes, summer rec program, sports lessons, movie rentals and a great nature center. But unless we are “entertaining” the kids it doesn’t count? I used to play outside for hours as a kid, we made up stuff to “play with” We’ve gotten lazy and too busy as parents. We’ve squashed their imaginations and over-entertained them. I don’t think it’s necessary to run from one activity to the next 3 or 4 nights a week to raise a well rounded child. And Alica, I know my kids don’t do as many chores as I did, and I think that’s wrong, so I’m making a committment to more chores!!
January 28th, 2008 at 6:16 am
I did some interesting research on the city budget over the weekend after one member on the dept told me to check out brandonsd.com city budgets, here is what I found:
Brandons Budget to FD:
2007: 52,000
2006: 50,500
2005: 51,500
In the last 3 years the budget has gone up $500.00
Now here is the Police Budget for the City:
2007: 782,621
2006: 712,589
2005: 567,982
Their budget has increased by $214,639.00
I know see why the Dept wants to have a tax district they are actually not getting any help from the city. A $500.00 increase over the past 3 years PLEASE PEOPLE. This city has grown alot in the past 3 years and the dept has not seen any of that tax money. The council is screwing the FD and now the council is trying to make the FD look bad by wanting to start a Fire District, maybe we should all stop by the bars and talk to our coucil members and tell them this is not right!!
January 28th, 2008 at 7:04 am
Red…you bring up a good point, but the problem is that the Fire Dept is not operated by the city. The Police Dept is. That is probably why you see such in increase to the PD. However if people in this city would have stopped and listened and gather information, instead of freaking out when the city was simply gathering information on the cost difffence between the City Police and the County Sheriff. They would have saved $350,000 dollars a year. HMMM maybe some of that could have gone to the Fire Dept to help out. Over 3yrs thats a million dollars.
January 28th, 2008 at 8:08 am
Hey Red, isnt the city paying for the building the FD is in? Shouldnt that be added to your numbers?
January 28th, 2008 at 8:43 am
That is not the point! The increase would still be $500.00 over the past 3 years. The building payment stays at $80,000.00..Don’t you think that the Fire Dept should see an increase of more then $500.00 in the past 3 years when the Brandon City Budget has increased by $709,366.00
So why not let the FD become their own Fire District, that would save the city $132,000/year they could stick into the Police Dept or Golf Course.
Personally, I think the FD should tell the city council to take their Fire Contract and shove it!!!
January 28th, 2008 at 9:05 am
….and then when the FD says that, the City can respond to the FD, we will take OUR building that you call your Fire Department and you can shove it! The building IS CITY property. Maybe they can operate out of your garage Red?
January 28th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
So Anonymous, What happens after the building is paid for? Will the payment go back to general fund for the police or the golf course? Maybe the city can use that money to hire a full time cheif? Can you explain why the city incrased the police budget an average of $107,000 while only increasing the amount for fire protection $167 per year? is the $167 increase to pay for new trucks? what is the growth of Brandon each year? What is budget for past few years? go out to the city web siteand check out the budget numbers for yourself. (Their is a link on the Brandoninfo home page) Lets Hope the city council and fire department will be open to questions and hold public forums like the city suggested, so we all can make an informed choice.
January 28th, 2008 at 2:11 pm
According to the FD sign in front of the Fire Hall they are having an open house to the Public starting at 5:00pm on Feb 1st…
January 28th, 2008 at 7:37 pm
I am just wondering why this is such an issue all of a sudden. The FD has been operating in this area for longer than Brandon has been a city. They have been doing just fine without tax support. I agree with the notion that we need to support the fire department, but the figures that are thrown out are ridiculous. If you figure $65 per 100K on property tax as your share of the tab that would equal out to around 455K for the city. I got that number by figuring roughly 3500 properties, and I don’t know if I am anywhere near the right number. If the FD needs that much money to operate, we need to look at what is going on. Especially if they think they need a ladder truck, come on. I can tell you for a fact that if you live in Sioux Falls and you call 911 with an emergency that you get a fire truck, an ambulance, a city police officer, and a deputy if they are in the neighborhood. The citizens of Sioux Falls do not pay anywhere near the figure that we are throwing out merely for a fire department. I just hope that, and I said it before, that this city council does not make the decision. They have proven that they do not care about money, SPEND, SPEND, SPEND. Also I am curious about the point earlier of a non-profit organization becoming an entity of the city? Has anyone researched or gotten an answer on that question?
January 28th, 2008 at 9:14 pm
#79
I suggest you go to the Public open house on Friday Feb 1st, and ask to see how they plan to spend their $400,000.. Until then I think you should keep an open mind about the situation.
All I can say is, if anyone of my family members was on the FD I would want them to have the best equipment possialbe. These guys go into a burning building when everyone else is running out to save your property or family member. They dont know you or your family, but are still willing to wake up at 3:00 am to run into your house for NO PAY.. $65.00 is not that much money per year to pay out, maybe that is one or two less nights of eating out. That is just my two cents on the situation. I hope to see a full house Friday night, since you all seem to be so worried about this matter.
January 29th, 2008 at 5:54 am
Red…before you start making the argument that these men and women of the VOLUNTEER Fire Dept are so un appreciated just because they respond at 3:00 in the morning, you better remember that they signed up for this. They can make a choice if they dont like it and get out. You say 65.00 is not that much money. Your forgetting that its $65 for every hundred thousand on the value of your home. Most homes (not all) go for two hundred thousand or better in this town. Thats $130.00 a year per house. Take that and add the cost of Robert Bennis and the new Bond issue just passed along with the rising costs of gas and groceries and utilities and remember most peoples incomes have not met the cost of living per year. That adds up. We are tired of paying out more and more and barely making it from pay check to pay check. So dont try and sell this idea that we could skip a few meals and it would pay for its self. Look at the whole picture. (cost of living) I dont believe that this fire dept needs the BEST equipment. There are many fire depts and police depts with used equipment that if taken care of properly will last for a long time. Just because we live in Brandon, doesnt mean we have to have the best of everything.
January 29th, 2008 at 8:18 am
#81, the best of everything, that’s what we have in the school district. Thats what the school always wants, just wait till you see the plans for the new buildings. I wonder how much marble and expensive tile will be used???? The best, we’ve been sold that here in Brandon ever since I’ve lived here , just gotten used to it
Concerning the increase in the money that the fire department will get. If I understand it they will recieve 400k each year or more. That is a major increase in there budget. I guess I’m leary
January 29th, 2008 at 10:21 am
I think this this whole mess has to be thought out. If you think that raising our taxes to get 400,00 to 500,00 thousand new dollars to the dept, you got a whole lot of idiot gong on. Lets say the dept wants to take on the responsibilty of the payment for the fire hall, they want this big number to help them. Close to 200,00 dollars that they get now, is gone, so our taxes go up, and by the time they are done they will have about $120,000. Where the heck are they coming out ahead??????? This town needs to stop this crazy. It is getting so old!!!!!
January 29th, 2008 at 10:38 am
Interesting Brandon Resident -your comment “along with the rising costs of gas and groceries and utilities” According to the city’s own numbers they have increased the FD amount only $500, while increasing the police $200,000+,
Does the city pay the utilities for the new building and gas for the fire trucks also? As for replacing the trucks, what is an acceptable age for a fire truck 10, 15, 20, 25, 50 years?
What is an acceptable age for a polcie car, a city plow?
I want to see the FD has to say and why, I don’t like the taxes going up but something seems amiss here, but we are getting off track. Since Brandon has apparently not grown since 2005 maybe the city should be cutting the budget across the board like they have for fire service.
January 29th, 2008 at 10:58 am
Thank you #84..
The city does not pay any utilities on the building or gas for the fire trucks.. Also, Federal regulations state that fire trucks should be replaced every 10-15 years. #81, Thank god their are men and women willing to do this job for free, because I know your lazy ass would never do it, and then you have the ballz to bash them and not give them the right equipment, maybe you should move to SF.. As far as the $65.00, maybe you should not live in such an expensive house that you barely can afford! Then you would have the extra $200.00/year for taxes!!!!
January 29th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
To #84 and others: The Brandon Police Department is a city department. The Brandon Volunteer Fire Department is not a city department. It is an entity with which the city contracts for services.
The city owns the building and the land under it, and the fire department pays $1 per year to lease the building from the city.
January 29th, 2008 at 1:15 pm
More questions than answers. Does BVFD have a mutual aid agreement with Sioux Falls so they can get a ladder truck to Brandon if it’s needed? How old are the BVFD’s current trucks? Do they have outdated equipment? And just an observation: We all have the right to be concerned about the rising cost of everything,including taxes, even if we live in a nice house. And, I haven’t seen any blogs on here that bash the BVFD or the firefighters. People are just questioning if that size of increase is necessary. It doesn’t imply that those people don’t support their FD and it doesn’t mean that those of us who aren’t volunteer firefighters are a “lazy ass” as #85 implies.
January 29th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
FRIDAY NIGHT 5:00PM BE THERE!!!!
GET ALL YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
January 29th, 2008 at 2:43 pm
Hey Red…before you go and start calling people a lazy azz, maybe you should know a few things. First of all I am in public service and I happen to be one of them out there at 3:00 in the morning. Yeah thats right even on Holliday’s, my childrens birthdays, anniversary’s and such. I am not asking for any sympathy. I signed up for the job and know exactly what I am getting into. At no point in my posts have I EVER BASHED the Brandon Fire Dept. I believe they are one of the finest depts around. Bottom line is I think alot of people here dont want hire taxes and are questioning the need for such a dramatic increase.
January 29th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
Hey RED, step back and take a deep breath, man.
January 29th, 2008 at 2:56 pm
Maybe the FD would not have to increase taxes if the city would increase their funding to the dept.. So maybe this is not about the FD and more about the city screwing the FD, I mean $500.00 over 3 years is nothing when you factor in utilities cost and everything else.
#89 Thanks for your services and accept my apology.
January 29th, 2008 at 3:52 pm
Red…apology accepted. I know that finding ways to fund this dept is very important to the people of the Brandon Fire Dept. It is equally important for the citizens also to have this dept for our city. Red…you have stated that you have a close friend on the Dept. Do you know if they have researched any grants out there? Also I would suggest that they contact other Fire Depts that are serving cities close to the same population as ours and see how they are funding their dept and also how much is their City council contributing to their budget. It would be interesting to see if the City of Brandon is really being fair to the fire dept compared with what other cities are doing.
January 29th, 2008 at 4:02 pm
Hey Red…someone on the fire dept needs to jump on the wagon and research these grants. I just looked on line. They city of Crooks, SD with a population of about 800 people were awarded $121,905.00 for a new fire truck. The web site was posted earlier on someones post and if they research that their are ways to apply. I would hope the fire dept would go with that option and maybe do this over a span of a few years to be able to purchase their new equipment, rather than raising our taxes.
January 29th, 2008 at 4:04 pm
I have to amend my earlier post (#86). I just read the building lease contract between the city and the fire department.
The city owns 72.5 percent of the building and the department owns 27.5 percent.
The city pays the insurance on the building but the department reimburses the city. The department is responsible for upkeep on the building. If the department replaces anything (like a faucet or furnace), the new fixture remains with the building if the department ever vacates it.
The contract was signed by Larry Beesley for the city and Fred Torberson for the department.
The contract doesn’t say anything about a dollar a year rent. Dennis Olson told me that part. Maybe it’s a verbal agreement. I don’t know.
January 29th, 2008 at 4:52 pm
The grants that you looked at are callled the AFG grants, they are awarded each Friday in Rounds. You can start applying for the grants in March for the next go-round. These grants are not guaranted by no means and I know that the Brandon Fire Dept does apply for these grants along with every other FD in the United States. You are only allowed to apply for one item per year I beleive. And when you are awarded the grant the FD still has to pay like 20% of the cost, it is a 80/20 loan and you specifically have to name what type of truck you are buying right down to the pump size.. It is every rare that the same dept will get a grant for a truck twice in 10-15 year span.
Experts say that Fire trucks should be replaced on a 10-15 year life span, so a grant may hook ya up with one truck but it will not help out for other trucks or even for new equipment. I am hoping the Dept members can answer this question better then I just did Friday night.
January 29th, 2008 at 5:05 pm
I have been following this and I feel that Red is attacking the City and others without cause. I cannot remember ever reading in the minutes that the FD has ever asked the city for more money.
The thing that I have heard is ever since the new FD building has been built is that the FD has had bad feelings toward the city.
From my knowledge. the city gave the FD the land, $130,000 for the old building, and administered the grants, loans and insurance on the building.
I am not aware that the city is trying to take over the FD.
What has happened to the buzzword “Partnering”? Thats a word that means to work togather fo a better outcome.
I will be at the upcoming meeting to hear the FD’s reasons for wanting a Fire District.
January 29th, 2008 at 5:51 pm
WHAT!! Attacking the city? All I want to know is why the FD budget has increased $500.00 over the past 3 years? I dont think you have any right calling me out like that. Why dont you come Friday night and ask the Firemen personally why they feel they need the money. I think alot of you are going to be suprised at what they have to say and how the City has been acting.
Also, how is the FD and City partnering going to be better? The council members know nothing about firefighting and god knows they know nothing about EMS from the Med-Star ordeal. They just want to have their noses in more business.
January 29th, 2008 at 7:59 pm
Red,
The city doesn’t have to support the FD because they don’t own the FD. So no, they shouldn’t be increasing their budget. And you can’t expect the citizens to pay a half a million dollars EVERY year.
You compare to the PD, but you can’t do that because they are operated by the city so their budget is for WAGES, insurance, taxes, vehicles and everything else that goes along with EMPLOYEES, not volunteers. You are not comparing apples to apples. It seems that the FD wants to have their cake and eat it too, meaning they want to stay independant and run it their way, but also want money handed to them. It simply doesn’t work that way. They better be prepared for people to audit their books for the past years to see how they’ve been managing their money. It’s pretty obvious you’re a
Brandon firefighter. I do agree with you about the Medstar ordeal.
January 29th, 2008 at 9:32 pm
#98.
You got me, I am a volunteer Firefighter, but the only thing is NOT for Brandon, but for a surrounding town that has close connections with many on the men and women that are on Brandon’s Dept.
January 29th, 2008 at 10:59 pm
I am a former member of the county rescue squad, to those who are questioning whether the FD needs new trucks and if they need a fire truck, i would like you to think of it this way. These trucks that the FD uses in today’s world has the name FIRE TRUCK and that is it. my definition of a fire truck is a giant toolbox on wheels, when you write specifications for a fire truck you want it made so you get the most equipment to the scene with the least amount of effort (# of people) the FD is not just a FD anymore, these volunteers take time away from their families so they can dedicate their time to protect the community they live in. the FD does everything from fires to medical responce, search and rescue, vehicle extrication. they are there when they are called 24 hours a day. I can tell you from the experiance that i have working on scenes with the BFD. these people are a dedicated bunch of people and are some of the best in the county if not the state. I have 100% confidence in the BFD. the only way to keep that is to make sure they have the equipment they need to get to the scene. If it doesn’t get to the scene guess what, they cant help and then people are up in arms because the FD failed to get there. the FD is a vital part of the community
One last thing. The BFD is not asking for $ for a new truck just so they have something to brag about. they will use it and it will be worth it
January 30th, 2008 at 8:49 am
FD supporter, when was the the last time a truck didn’t make it to a scene?
There a lot of volunteers in this community that take time away from their families.
So they spend the first years taxes ($400,000) on a new truck, what are they spending the subsequent years money on?
Brandon wasn’t interested in an ambulance tax district why are they interested in a fire tax district????
It seems some of our fireman want paid positions, is that what this is all about?
Are they going to let EVERY ONE of the firemen drive that new truck?
January 30th, 2008 at 9:01 am
Red, I might suggest that if your not a member of the BVFD, your spoutting off alot if inside info. If your not a member then I’d suggest that you let the BVFD take care of their own business.
January 30th, 2008 at 9:15 am
How is anything that I said inside info? Everything that I have mentioned is available to anyone in the public from the city’s budget to how AFG grants work to when the public forum is.
I do now alot about fire depts and how they operate from being a member of various depts over 15 years.
So please 101 tell me where I was spoutting any inside info!
January 30th, 2008 at 9:50 am
My point being you have the info on the grants etc., not saying that a normal person could not find that stuff out. You have the info.
If your not a part of the BVFD, they might not want you refering to brondon people as lazy asses. They might be able to fight there own battle a bit more diplomatically.
January 30th, 2008 at 9:57 am
Fred or Red or whoever,
It’s very apparent with your demeanor that you have a direct stake in this issue, not the “I have a friend” senerio that you claim.
FD supporter,
When has a Brandon truck not made it to a scene? And firemen aren’t the only ones that volunteer their time. And please stop the “They give up their time and are so dedicated for free” So, don’t do it, thus the word volunteer. That argument for more money is fiscally irresponsible and only designed to play on people’s hearts strings. (Just like Medstar tactics)
I think I’m underpaid too, but that doesn’t mean I get a HUGE REVOLVING pay raise.
No one says their not dedicated. But if they want to be paid for firefighting then go through what it takes to actually become a paid firefighter and get hired by a paid service. But I think they already realize that involves over a year of written, phycological and physical testing (and don’t forget the background checks)
You can’t have the cake and eat it too.
Name the towns involved in a tax district that are collecting nearly a half million dollars a year.
What will the department do with $500,000 per year after they buy a truck the FIRST year???
January 30th, 2008 at 10:00 am
O always lisitening, you are making no sense, stop worrying about who is who on these blogs and read what people are saying. Dont try to be a Private Dick and solve the mystery of who is hiding behind “Red” Maybe you should research more important information.
The reason I have the info on the grants is that any Firemen no matter what dept he is on, knows about AFG grants, every FD in the United States applies for these grants.
As far as lazy asses go, I did say I was sorry to that person and he accepted, so stop worrying about it.
I am sorry that someone else might have more information then you on a subject. Sounds to me you are just looking to stir the pot alittle bit.
January 30th, 2008 at 10:26 am
Red, how come you won’t answer #101 questions?
January 30th, 2008 at 10:27 am
meant #104 not 101
January 30th, 2008 at 10:30 am
The fear of some one stirring the pot is coming from you. RED. The BVFD is made up of professional, proud, respectful individuals that would have the sence to keep quite or to convey more diplomatically that which needs to be conveyed.
You do sound unfortunatlly like someone I know, the type on the departpment with a personal agenda. The BVFD will do what is right and needed for the community, hopefully with out your input.
January 30th, 2008 at 10:39 am
#107
I feel that the Brandon Fire Dept is not looking to raise the budget to $500,000 per year just to buy Trucks. But that is my own opinon. Must departments that I know of, set aside money each year out of the budget to save for a truck. I am sure if we ask to see an outline of the new budget they could show it to us (I hope)..
How am I stirring the pot? you make no sense. I am looking at this from a FD side, I have given all facts to the best of my knowledge. From listening to all of you on this blog, I sure up that the Brandon Fire Hall is packed with questions on Friday night.
#108. I quote you saying “The BVFD will do what is right and needed for the community”. So if the Brandon Fire Dept thinks it is right to raise taxes and it is best for the community, WHY ARE YOU COMPLAINING? That is what the FD feels is the right thing to do, so lets support them, according to your quote
January 30th, 2008 at 10:47 am
If I’m complaining it would be about you RED, enough is enough
January 30th, 2008 at 10:54 am
So know one else should voice their opinions on this blog if they are not approved by you? You can say what you want and I can say what I want. Lets not make this into the MED-Star blog. I have never once stirred the pot, I have voiced my feelings on how grants work and how I feel about this issue. Looking at your blogs seems to me, you are always looking for an argument and never once stated any facts. You mostly are just feeding off of everyone’s facts and twisting them a bit. (but thats your choice to do).
Also, what complaints do you have against me? Because I am sticking up for the FD, because I know a little bit about grants? I am sorry if that offends you, but it is my feelings on the issue.
January 30th, 2008 at 11:29 am
The City is taking a bad rap on this Fire Department thing. Some facts from City Hall.
Contract for services to the City from the Brandon Volunteer Fire Department:
1998 $41,000.00
1999 $42,500.00
2000 $43,500.00
2001 $43,500.00
2002 $44,800.00
2003 $46,200.00
2004 $47,600.00
2005 $49,000.00
2006 $50,500.00
2007 $52,000.00
2008 $54,000.00
This is a 3% increase annually. The city can only raise taxes (increase their revenue) by State law by 3% or the CPI whichever is less. Nine of the
last ten years, the CPI has been less, yet the Fire Department has had a full 3% increase. The Police Department has had substantial increases, but other city departments have taken less because of those increases.
This was a Council decision.
Further: Roger Hunt, Mary Brooks, Dr. Chester, and Dr. Daniels submitted a
report to the City on the emergency services question. One of their recommendation was to do all the city could do to improve the first responders with equipment and education. They are there first on the scene
and can do the most good. The Council met with the Board of Directors to inquire as to what was needed. The Board of directors said “they needed nothing more”.
Further: The Department demanded a new building. The price was just short of $1.6 million for what was expressed by the Department as the “bare minimum” for a building. Perhaps they should have constructed a half a
million dollar building instead of one of nicest fire halls in South Dakota and spent the balance of the money for equipment to put out fires. Were
they not organized to fight fires or to house equipment in a palace?
Is this the kind of responsible thinking we want to have taxing authority?
Further: The Fire Department budgets of Madison and Vermilion for O&M are in line with what the Brandon Department is living with for income. Both Madison and Vermillion purchase equipment, including trucks, for their departments over and above the O&M budgets. In the last ten years, neither city has spent $1.26 million on equipment for their departments. Brandon
has spent that amount on a building at the request of the department. I think the city and the tax payers have done their part.
January 30th, 2008 at 11:33 am
That is some interesting information #113. Thank you for looking into it that deeply!! Has changed my view alittle bit. thanks again
January 30th, 2008 at 12:00 pm
Sure, it is a volunteer gig but if they didn’t volunteer to do it, you wouldn’t have a fire department in town. Do you want to have to rely on surronding communities for fire aid? I like knowing i will have someone at my door in a moments notice no questions asked. That luxury requires a continued commitment from the entire city of Brandon. If you don’t feel you need that, perhaps you should move. The city of Brandon voted for better ambulance services, why shouldn’t they have reliable, up to date fire equipment available to save your life? I agree, a tax increase is not exactly what we all want but come on….if the city took over the fire dept themselves we would surely have a tax increase, and they would put that money in their general fund and we wouldn’t have any better fire dept then we have now. Personally, I think we need to vote for a new city council. I don’t think they are always looking at our best interests.
January 30th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
Living in Brandon,
The “better ambulance services” as you put it didn’t come from a TAX HIKE (yet, anyway)
And if this does pass, I am moving. Brandon cannot continue to burden their citizens with a new tax every 6 months.
Agreed about the new city council. April is coming.
January 30th, 2008 at 1:31 pm
Anonymous, I didn’t say that the ambulance service created a tax hike. Slow down and read a little closer.
You better move to a small town that isn’t close to Sioux Falls in order to find a community that isn’t dealing with the same growing pains as Brandon is.
I could be wrong but I don’t believe Madison and Vermillion will have the population growth in the next 10 years that will compare to what Brandon will have. An increase in population means in increase in personell and equipment, not to mention “replacing” out of date equipment. Let’s be proactive not reactive.
January 30th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
Eventually we’ll just be a suburb of SF. I’m not ready to be $500,000 A YEAR proactive. It’s ridiculous. What is it with these grandiose visions of the people of Brandon? NO MORE TAXES, don’t you people realize there is a recession looming?
January 30th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
I find this blog to be somewhat amusing. There seems to be a lot of confusing the issue here.
Is this an issue about?
Creating a Fire District?
About the quality of the Fire Department?
Trying to compare the Golf Course, Police Department, and the Ambulance to the Fire Department?
Or the cost of the running a Fire Department?
Let’s stick to the topic and quit confusing the issue to get a point across.
What equipment is outdated and how much will each piece cost?
What has the leadership of the Fire Department been doing to look ahead for funding? Has this Fire District been in the works for a long time?
January 30th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
I’ve spent time talking to city people and fire department people, and it appears to me that the main issue is that the fire department wants to – some would say needs to – put some money into reserves so that when it comes time to make a major purchase, such as a new truck, that there will be money available.
According to fire department officials, their current budget doesn’t provide for that. So they need more money than they are getting right now.
They’d like to get that money by creating a tax district.
At the last council meeting, one of the councilors suggested an alternative to get extra money: become a department of the city.
Would that work? Maybe. Would it be a better way to get more money than creating a tax district? Maybe. Maybe not. We don’t have enough information yet to know for sure.
There are other options besides these two, though.
I’ll start a new thread to talk about some of those.
January 30th, 2008 at 4:56 pm
#118, I don’t think there is anything “grandiose” about wanting to have a full time fire dept. That being said, I don’t think now is the right time to make that change. I think we should shelve the idea for a future date.
January 30th, 2008 at 6:43 pm
Can I get some info on a tax district.
Is the tax rate fixed or can it go up and down over time. I thought I read they had two years to determine what the rate should be.
How long is the taxing authority granted - forever or a specified length of time?
If the FD decides to eventually become a city department some time down the road, does the city buy the current assets of the FD? If so, who gets the money? I only ask because maybe the city could buy the new trucks and rent them to the FD. I’d just hate to buy things twice.
What other options are there besides a new tax district? I know, go to the meeting. I probably will, but I wanted my questions and concerns known ahead of time so they can have thought out answers.
January 30th, 2008 at 9:22 pm
As I understand it a Fire District will have the power to levy taxes on property in the area they serve. If you look at your tax bill now, it will list county, school, city, township. If they get a Fire District passed, the FD will tax your property at a rate of around $65 per $100,000 of evaluation.
That should raise around $400,000 per year. At that rate I would not expect it to go down.
The money that the county, the city, and the rural townships budgets for the FD would stop, as they would be self funded with the tax they collect.