Area fire departments and districts seeking new revenue streams

NBC5Chicago.com has published an article discussing a new policy adopted by several local fire departments in the Chicago area, which now charge fees for certain services.

Car accidents can already be expensive, but now some individuals may face additional costs when firefighters are called to assist them. At least 15 fire departments in the Chicago area now charge the public for responding to car accidents and vehicle fires. According to data from the Better Government Association and NBC 5 Investigates, about half of these departments started charging fees within the last year as more towns look for new ways to generate revenue.

The fees are usually applied to non-residents and can vary. Some departments charge a flat fee, while others base it on the number of fire trucks and personnel involved, as well as how long the crew is on the scene. This practice is being used by departments such as Alsip, Berkeley, Blue Island, Broadview, Calumet Park, Chicago Heights, Flossmoor, Forest View, Hillside, Maywood, Midlothian, North Palos Fire Protection District, Roberts Park Fire Protection District, Stone Park, and Westchester.

Illinois law has allowed municipal fire departments to charge non-residents for their services since 1996. The Broadview Fire Department, for example, began billing in 1998. Fire Chief Thomas Gaertner explained that the money helps fund equipment. In 2013, the department billed $5,155, but only collected $1,920.

However, the Better Government Association raised concerns about this billing method. BGA investigator Katie Drews noted, “They bill per firefighter and per engine, which raises questions about whether they're charging for services that were actually needed at the scene.”

Despite these concerns, fire departments prioritize safety and respond fully when emergencies occur. Gaertner believes more municipalities will follow suit. While insurance often covers these fees, industry groups argue that such charges add unnecessary costs, which could eventually lead to higher premiums. In fact, states like Indiana have passed laws to prevent municipalities from charging for these types of services.

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