UTICA, Ind. (WDRB) -- Utica Township is restarting its volunteer fire department without any significant funding.

"It's not an inspiration," Utica Fire Chief Joe Jarles said. "We were forced into it."

Fire departments from surrounding areas have donated uniforms and equipment, and Utica's firefighters won't be paid a dime.

Utica Township has been searching for full-time fire coverage since Fall 2024.

Jeffersonville's Fire Department agreed to take in the town before Senate Bill 1 cut its funding.

This partnership would have filled gaps left after the corruption case of former Clark County Sheriff Jamey Noel. He led New Chapel EMS and the Utica Township Volunteer Fire Department. Noel is currently serving a 12-year prison sentence for misusing the department's funds and stealing millions from taxpayers through years of fraud and misconduct.

Now, Utica's only option is to restart a volunteer fire department. WDRB spoke with several residents who said they're excited to see everybody coming together to help.

"People feel like they want to help," Jarles said. "That they can help, and they're going to reach out to us and give us a hand."

The town is looking for at least 30 volunteer firefighters, plus support staff. Jarles said they're off to a good start. 

"We currently have almost 50 applications," he said. "Just the fire gear alone is $4,000 per person."

There will be an open house later this month for those interested in joining the department. Jarles hopes to get at least 60 applications total.

The department is selling three firetrucks to get out of debt, with plans to take that money to buy two used fire engines. 

Utica Fire and Rescue will also receive funding from yearly tax revenue. That's roughly $230,000, which will help the team with firehouse upkeep and equipment. But for now, Jarles' team is relying on donations.

"We've been given equipment from some of the Jefferson County departments," he said. "We've had equipment donated even as far as Evansville."

Jeffersonville Fire will cover Utica through the end of the year. Jarles said it will continue to help with mutual aid for a few months after that. The chief hopes to have his volunteers ready to go by Jan. 1, 2026. 

"It's not the department we wanted," he said. "But it's the department that we're building together, and so the community is very much behind it."

The department is having an open house on July 28 at 7 p.m. for anyone interested in joining the team. It's located at 5820 Utica Pike. You can also sign up to volunteer with the department by clicking here. 

Related Coverage:

'Time to move on' | Jeffersonville backs out of deal to provide fire services to town of Utica

Public safety a concern as Clark County officials weigh options to fund fire protection district

Clark County Commissioners vote to dismiss Utica Fire board amid ongoing fire territory funding debate

Judge reinstates fire board as Utica faces $30 million fire department, tax increase

Copyright 2025 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved.