Onslow County officials are working to create a fire service strategic plan to improve how the county’s hybrid fire system operates.
The plan would include county-operated and contracted agencies, as well as all municipalities.
The goal is to look countywide at how fire services are organized, how resources are used, and discover ways to make operations more effective, according to Kevin Reopelle, Onslow County public affairs manager.
A key part of the process will be community involvement.
Onslow County wants to hear from residents, volunteer fire departments, area municipalities and other public safety stakeholders both in-person and online, via public meetings, forums, surveys and interview opportunities.
Reopelle said that input from volunteer fire departments will be critical in understanding the challenges they face, including recruitment and retention, training requirements, equipment capabilities and funding needs.
The insights provided will inform the county on how it can better coordinate services, streamline communication and enhance the overall efficiency of the hybrid model of paid and volunteer firefighting.
The county recently released a request for proposals from interested vendors that can facilitate the creation of the strategic plan, Reopelle said.
It is anticipated that a contract will be awarded by mid-August.
