FLOYD COUNTY, Ind. (WDRB) — When Indiana lawmakers cut property taxes last year, homeowners saw relief — but now local governments are feeling the pinch.
That shrinking revenue is forcing some counties to consider consolidations that few thought possible. As less money comes in, some essential services are joining forces to survive.
“This is a merger simply for property tax grab. It’s a money grab,” said Chris Redden, who voiced concerns Wednesday over a proposed merger involving fire districts in Floyd County.
The plan would combine the Georgetown Township Fire Protection District and New Albany Township Fire Protection District with the Highlander Fire Protection District — essentially creating a single countywide system.
“It is the three existing fire districts,” explained Keith Pulliam, an attorney representing the districts. “Hopefully it will avoid duplication, avoid competing for human resources, and allow different things to be consolidated as one.”
If approved, the new district would cover nearly all of Floyd County — excluding the city of New Albany — and require roughly $12 million per year to operate.
Property taxes in Indiana fund schools first, fire protection second. And while some residents will see modest decreases, others could end up paying more.
“My property taxes this year were $17,140,” Redden said. “My property insurance went up 72%. My health insurance went to $18,000 — I had to give it up. I can’t afford it anymore.”
Another resident put it bluntly: “I just really want to get rid of the property tax thing. It’s taking away our right to live on us.”
Meanwhile, Floyd County officials are also exploring a countywide EMS service, though there’s little appetite for private ambulance providers following the controversy surrounding New Chapel EMS and former Clark County Sheriff Jamey Noel.
A final decision on the fire district consolidation is expected by the end of March.
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