Allen County Commissioners passed all four ordinances for the creation and expansion of four fire districts in the county.
Proponents for these new districts say they are necessary because of a drop in volunteerism, inflation driving up the cost of equipment, and 9-1-1 calls being higher than normal.
Officials say this has left fire territories under-manned and struggling to afford the most up to date equipment.
Commissioners say the new fire districts would go a long way in allowing firefighters in the towns of Leo-Cedarville, Huntertown and Grabill and Aboite, Eel River, Perry, Washington, Cedar Creek, Scipio and Springfield Townships to more efficiently respond to emergencies.
The Commissioners will have oversight of these fire districts and will appoint trustees to directly oversee their operation.
The trustees will serve staggered terms to allow for continuity at the end of each term. The ordinances all passed unanimously.
Maps of each of the new territories can be found at the Allen County Commissioners website.