House hearing targets confusion over who pays for fire services in unincorporated communities
People who live in areas covered by fire districts or departments pay taxes for their service. But in unincorporated areas, residents are often dependent on private companies and it's not always clear who foots the bill.
State lawmakers held a hearing Monday to address the confusion.
Those who are under private services, such as Rural Metro Fire, pay a subscription fee. But that can cost hundreds of dollars a year.
If someone doesn’t pay a subscription for services, responders still arrive, but that person is left with the bill which can be thousands.
During the House Ad Hoc Committee hearing, lawmakers heard from residents who were unaware of the lack of government provided fire response.
Tim Soule, Rural Metro fire chief, says efforts to work with governments to provide other solutions are limited by state law.
“Not only does Arizona not consider the fire suppression as an essential form of government, but they’re very light on statutes, and administrative roles that support the fire service within Arizona," Soule said.
During the hearing, Republican Rep. Neil Carter said that any changes to Arizona’s statutes will have to come through the Legislature or voter initiative.
