School board still discussing deeding property to BonDeCroft Volunteer Fire Department

For many months in a row, White County School Board has been careful in its approach to deeding property to BonDeCroft Volunteer Fire Department.

The board has tried to find the fairest way to share this property for both parties. During their November meeting, State Representative Paul Sherrell came to represent the fire department and speak with the board.

For some history, the BonDeCroft Volunteer Fire Department brought the topic back up, in August, as they have been unable to secure certain grants due to not owning the property on which they operate. The school board agreed to investigate the issue, but it has been a very careful process.

“It’s a valuable tool to the school that’s right behind it,” Representative Sherrell said. “If you think of all the things the volunteer fire department does in our community, which I gave you a list of things they do.”

Representative Sherrell explained more of the sacrifices the volunteer firefighters make for the sake of the county, such as the fact they pay for their training at their own expense.

“I think it can make this work in a good way,” Representative Sherrell said. “It would be good for the community, be good for the school that’s sitting there, and whoever don’t want it? Thinks it’s a bad idea? I hope they need the fire department.”

School Board Chairman Bob Young responded first.

“What I understand the board’s position to be is that we’re for all our volunteer fire departments, and we appreciate what you do,” Chairman Young said.

Chairman Young then explained some information that had previously not been mentioned during these meetings. One example was that it’s the school board’s final decision on the property, as it is deeded to the school system. Young also mentioned that a lease may be a better option than an outright purchase.

“If the school were to sell property, then that may trigger other things about how we dispose of surplus assets,” Chairman Young said.

He also mentioned that the school board should address this topic for all the fire departments that have their facility on school board property, not just BonDeCroft.

The school board placed the discussion on the agenda for the December meeting, which will be 6 p.m., Dec. 11.