Welcome to Fire Strong Jefferson, where we’re dedicated to forging a safer tomorrow for our community. Our mission is clear: to ensure the safety and well-being of Jefferson County by empowering residents with the knowledge and resources they need to prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies.
We believe that safety is a shared responsibility. Through education, collaboration, and community engagement, we strive to build a county equipped to protect ourselves and others in times of crisis.
Through the implementation of a Fire Fee or Levy, our goal is to provide valuable support to residents, businesses, and organizations throughout Jefferson County. Together, we can create a stronger, safer community for generations to come, but we need your help.
Why do we need a fire levy or fee?
The need for a fire levy or fee in Jefferson County, West Virginia, is clear: to ensure the operation and adequate funding of the volunteer fire companies serving our community.
Who asked for a fee or levy?
The JCFRA approached the commission for a sustainable funding method. We were advised first to proceed with a fee. Upon return, at the request of the Jefferson County Commission, the Jefferson County Fire and Rescue Association, Inc., drafted a special levy call.
Whats the purpose of the fire fee or levy?
The purpose of this Fire Fee or Levy is to establish a sustainable source of funding for fire protection services throughout Jefferson County. The fee/levy will enable these volunteer fire companies to maintain essential equipment, facilities, and training programs to effectively respond to emergencies and safeguard our community.
I already pay an Ambulance Fee. How is this different?
Importantly, revenues generated from the Fire Fee or Levy will be dedicated solely to fire protection services and will not be used for emergency medical services (EMS), except for ordinary expenses incurred by member departments assisting the County in EMS provisions. Absolutely ZERO funding from the ambulance fee goes to volunteer fire departments.
Can you summarize the need for the fee or levy in simple terms?
In essence, the Fire Fee or Levy is crucial for ensuring that our volunteer fire companies have the necessary resources to protect lives, property, and the well-being of our community. By supporting the levy, we are investing in the safety and resilience of Jefferson County, West Virginia, for generations to come.
The revenues shall be dedicated to the Jefferson County Fire and Rescue Association and shall be used solely to defray the costs of continuing, maintaining, improving, regulating, and supervising fire protection services within Jefferson County, West Virginia. Funds shall be used to defray costs related solely too:
- Vehicles – Fuel, Maintenance, Procurement
- Business Operations – Insurance, Service Contracts, Training, Software
- Station – Utilities, Maintenance, Renovations, Procurement
- Equipment, Tools and Services – Procurement, Maintenance.
- Emergency Operation – expenses directly resulting from emergency response (e.g. crew nourishment)
- 2% of annual levy funds received shall be dedicated for use by the Association for operational expenses and training for the County’s fire fighters.
- 5% of annual levy funds received shall be dedicated to a Capital Improvement fund to fund future capital improvement needs as arise.
“It’s important to get answers.” “This is a big deal.”
— Former Commissioner Jennifer Krouse
JCFRA Promises Transparency
We agree with Former Commissioner Krouse, this is a big deal, and we are committed to providing answers with transparency and accuracy. Transparency in the fee/levy process is essential for building trust and accountability within the community. It’s all about open communication and being upfront about how funds will be used to support vital services like fire protection. By keeping things transparent, we ensure that everyone has access to the information they need to understand the proposal and its impact. This creates opportunities for meaningful discussions, questions, and feedback, making the decision-making process more inclusive and informed. Plus, transparency builds trust by showing that we’re committed to using taxpayer dollars responsibly and with integrity. It’s all about working together to make our community safer and stronger for everyone.
The below numbers are DRAFT figures, and being used solely for planning and discussion purposes:
The proceeds from the imposition and collection of the Fire Fee or Levy shall be deposited in a distinct account(s) held by the Treasurer of Jefferson County and shall be dispersed to the JCFRA member companies to defray the costs of continuing, maintaining, improving, regulating, and supervising fire protection services within Jefferson County, West Virginia.
Remaining funding shall be transferred to the JCESA to support fire staffing located in volunteer firehouses – in addition to the staffing levels provided by the Jefferson County Commission for EMS system.
Jefferson County Fire and Rescue Association 