Merrillville firefighters are sounding the alarm over a potential budget loss linked to Indiana Senate Bill 1 (2025), which could drastically cut funding to the town’s fire services starting this year. The proposed bill threatens to reduce the fire department’s funding by $50,000 in the first year, growing to $250,000 by year three. According to Merrillville Fire Department officials, these cuts are tied to a state-level property tax law aimed at reducing local taxes, but they argue that it could undermine essential emergency services, including fire response times and public safety measures.
The fire department’s leadership is urging the community to take action and reach out to state legislators to prevent the cuts, which could put pressure on the department’s ability to maintain the same level of service. The projected reduction is equivalent to roughly the salary of several firefighters. Merrillville leaders contend that the decision, set in motion by lawmakers in Indianapolis, does not reflect the needs or priorities of local residents.
Senate Bill 1, which seeks to limit tax increases for local governments, could have a ripple effect across the state. Merrillville’s Fire Department, like many others, depends on property taxes to fund essential services, including emergency responses and public health measures like smoke detector installations.
The department is asking residents to contact their legislators through the state bill portal to voice opposition and demand reconsideration of these proposed cuts. Local firefighters emphasized that they are committed to protecting the town, but they need the community’s support to keep their services fully operational.
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