COLUMBUS-The Polk County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution of appreciation this week for Polk firefighters who helped in the Party Rock Fire in nearby Rutherford County.

Commissioners met on Monday, Dec. 19 and unanimously approved the resolution.

Commissioner chair Tommy Melton read the resolution and said law enforcement, fire departments and rescue squad went far beyond the call of duty to help the people in Rutherford County. He thanked all who worked to save lives and property in our neighboring county.

Following is the resolution approved by commissioners:

WHEREAS, on Nov. 5, 2016 during a period of severe drought in western North Carolina, a fire which became known as the “Party Rock Fire” began in the Lake Lure area of Rutherford County; and

WHEREAS, the fire quickly increased in size and intensity and eventually burned over 5,900 acres in Rutherford County, threatened many homes and businesses, and necessitated the evacuation of a great many citizens; and

WHEREAS, numerous public safety personnel, volunteers and private citizens from Polk County and surrounding areas played a pivotal role in the protection of the affected community whereby no lives or structures were lost, and those stricken by this tragedy were safely evacuated and sheltered; and

WHEREAS, many private citizens, associations and corporations gave of their resources to aid, render comfort and provide assistance to those fighting the fire, as well as to those whose homes and businesses were threatened by it.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Polk County Board of Commissioners does hereby recognize and express its gratitude and appreciation to all those who battled the fire, supported the firefighters, as well as to those who rendered aid and comfort to all those affected by its destruction.