State law raises volunteer allowances; town estimates up to $15,000 impact and tables decision

Fire Chief Chris told the board the state recently passed a change the transcript references as "Senate Bill 1048" or an Enrollment Act/number 1048 that increases a clothing allowance to $250 and sets an automobile allowance of $250 for line-of-duty use, which together would equal $500 per member. "Usually we cap our guys at 30," Chris said, and he estimated "around 15,000" annually if the town were required to cover the full amounts for all eligible volunteers.

Members raised questions about whether the change applies strictly to volunteers in town departments, to entities that contract with the town, or whether the cost could be spread across township partners; Rachel said she would contact Clayton (the town attorney) when he returns from a conference. Several board members said this item should be tabled pending legal guidance; the board agreed to table it and revisit at a future meeting.

The transcript contains inconsistent references to the statute (variously called "Senate Bill 1048" and "House Enrollment Act number 1048"). The board did not adopt any change or commit funds; it asked staff to seek legal clarification and return with options.