The Elbert Board of County Commissioners voted against a request from the Agate Fire Department to waive the application fee so the department can form a district. The decision was an example of the commissioners’ focus on the county’s economic situation.

Commissioner Del Schwab said he struggled with the Jan. 28 decision, but knew it was his responsibility to look at the bigger picture and the county’s financial status.

“I applaud Agate for forming a district but the board really has to be careful of the refunds at this point,” he said.

The fire department was represented by Fire Chief Larry Rector, who requested the waiver fee of $500 for the application for the special district plan formation. He said the department’s finances have been hit hard due to the increase in calls over the past year. The department runs only on donations and one fundraiser per year, and is made up of volunteers. He said fuel bills were extreme in 2008 for the department.

“We are barely able to keep our equipment together and our trucks running,” Rector said. “I am blessed to have a handful of good mechanics to keep everything running.”

Commissioner John Shipper made the recommendation to reduce the $500 fee by 10 percent and if that reduction does not work, the fire department will have the opportunity to face the board again to discuss the fee. The reduction was approved by the board, and Shipper also asked Rector to invite the commissioners to the next fundraiser.

Commissioner Hope Goetz said her heart is with all fire departments, but because of her position on the board, it is her responsibility to keep the county’s best interest in mind.

“First and foremost we have to do what is most beneficial to the citizens of the county,” she said. “I believe at this point the 10 percent is the best we can do.”