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For the first time since 2015, the Glassy Mountain Fire Service Area (GMFSA) is seeking a crucial millage increase, which would ensure the continued operations and services provided to the district. While much of Greenville County has seen an abundance of growth, the GMFSA has a tax base that has fluctuated greatly for the past decade and is now equal to values in 2012. 

 

While the income of the GMFSA has remained relatively flat for the past decade, the GMFSA has been fiscally responsible with the tax dollars it receives and has even expanded services to include Advanced Life Support-Paramedic Level response and an improved ISO rating of 3. 

 

With recent inflation and increases across the board for daily operating expenses, the GMFSA is quickly exhausting its once healthy reserves.

 

The GMFSA Board of Commissioners presented the position of the department to the Greenville County Council Finance Committee on May 9 and received their approval to move forward. The Greenville County Council will have their first reading of an ordinance to approve the GMFSA’s request for an increase on May 17, during their regular monthly meeting. A second reading and public hearing will be held on June 7 with a final vote will taking place on June 21. 

 

The proposed increase of 3.5 Mills would cost taxpayers approximately $14.00 per every $100K of the assessed value of a property. The GMFSA will be holding public meetings to discuss this increase with citizens of the district on May 24 and June 2, 6:30 pm, at GMFSA Headquarters at 2015 Highway 11, Landrum. 

 

The GMFSA operates under the guidance of a non-compensated, seven-member elected board that strives to ensure the timely response of well-qualified personnel with the most effective equipment for every emergency call in the district. The GMFSA has a deep appreciation for the support of its citizenry.  

 

Submitted by Kelley Murphy, Administrative Manager