Committee unanimously amends proposed budget to extend transport insurance to rostered fire and rescue members

The committee amended the proposed budget to include county-paid transport insurance for all members listed on active rosters for fire and rescue in Oconee County. The chair moved the amendment, which passed unanimously after clarifying discussion about whether "honorary" members would be included and how the county's rosters are maintained.

Why it matters: Staff said the transport insurance discussed for rostered members was estimated around $160 per person, and members flagged potential double-pay issues if roster records are unclear. Committee members urged staff to provide the roster and count details so the budget office can calculate an accurate cost before final adoption.

What was approved: The committee asked that the proposed budget be amended so that, if a member appears on the roster submitted to county staff, that member would receive county-paid transport insurance. Members debated definitions (active vs. honorary), asked for a clean roster and counts, and emphasized using the roster that the county receives for incentive/supplemental calculations.

Direct quotes: During debate, staff summarized budget items and cost assumptions; one member said the supplemental transport insurance was "due in March" and another reminded the group that including the coverage could be used as a recruitment and retention tool.

Next steps: Staff will provide the roster and the comparative budget worksheet (current vs. proposed stipend), confirm which line items have been reclassified to professional services or supplemental insurance, and present a final cost to the council budget committee.