New Fire Coordinator Appointed in Abbeville County

In Abbeville County, South Carolina, a change in leadership is on the horizon in the public sector. The County recently appointed a new Fire Coordinator, Mr. J.T. Bass, marking a new era for the Abbeville County Fire Service.

A Veteran Firefighter for a Critical Role

J.T. Bass officially assumed his new duties on July 1, as he was formally introduced to the Abbeville County Council members at a meeting held earlier this week. Members of the council who were in attendance include James McCord, Rick Campbell, Chairman Bryan McClain, Charles Goodwin, Brandon Johnson and William “Billy” Norris. The County Director, David Garner, was also present.

Bass comes to Abbeville County after serving 30 years in the fire service, and he is set to assist the fire chiefs of the County’s fire departments. In spite of the national decline in volunteerism, Bass reported that Abbeville is an exception, noting that the County’s fire departments have successfully maintained a staff strength of up to 300 people.

Capitalizing on the Power of Consolidation

The decision to appoint a new Fire Coordinator comes after the council approved a consolidation of public service departments in February. According to County Director Garner, this move was aimed at enhancing efficiency through cost-saving measures and improved intra-departmental communications. He also voiced hopes that this consolidation could enhance the County’s chances of receiving grants and enable cross-training of staff across different departments.

Other Business

Apart from the introduction of the new Fire Coordinator, several other points of business were addressed at the meeting. Councilwoman Christine Long, after a period of absence due to a recent stroke, expressed her intentions to return to Council business after her rehabilitation. Following the meeting, an announcement confirmed that County employees could expect to see a 5% pay increase for fulltime staff members and a 3% raise for part-timers from July 1.

In addition, April L. Davis was appointed to handle the county’s Title III funds, used primarily for English education programs. The Council also approved a zoning change for 38 Power Dam Lane in the Lake Secession area, allowing the area to transition from a forest agriculture zone to a general residential zone. The estimated budget for a requested riding mower, which would be used by the Sheriff’s office, was capped at $8,200, with the funds being provided by the Sheriff’s office.