SB485 Summary

• Applies only to Geneva County and establishes the legal framework for creating fire districts to provide fire prevention and emergency services within the county.

• Fire districts require approval by majority vote at a referendum election, with petitions signed by at least 100 qualified electors within the proposed district boundaries.

• District governance is managed by a seven-member board of directors elected by district residents, with initial board members drawn from existing volunteer fire department boards.

• Fire protection fees are levied uniformly on dwellings and commercial buildings, with 1% of fees allocated to the Alabama Forestry Commission's Geneva County office and 1% to the Geneva County Volunteer Firefighters Association.

• Districts may be dissolved only when debt-free, with assets and equipment transferred to the Geneva County Volunteer Firefighters Association.