Local Government Reorganization Bill Would Change Fire Services

The Indiana Volunteer Firefighter's Association strongly opposes the bill.

INDIANAPOLIS - "Please shut this down." 

That is the plea from the Oldenburg Fire Department regarding a proposed piece of legislation. 

House Bill 1233 has been introduced to the Indiana General Assembly by House Rep. Karen Engleman. 

The bill would provide for the following to happen: 

• Township Government is dissolved
• County Executive assumes powers/duties of trustees for fire and emergency services
• All fire territories and districts are dissolved January 2027
• County adopts a county fire/emergency services plan
• County Emergency Management Director oversees operations (acts as fire chief)
• An Elected County Trustee will administer assistance
• Various other provisions including dissolution of certain unincorporated towns

The bill also provides that all incorporated towns with a population of less than 1,000 are required: (1) to report not later than November 1, 2025, and every November 1 every four years thereafter as to the services provided to residents, and operating costs; and (2) to be dissolved by the county legislative body if the town's operating costs exceed the expenditures for delivery of services to residents.

The Indiana Volunteer Firefighter's Association strongly opposes the bill, and is calling on Indiana residents to contact their state representative on voice their opposition. 

"House Bill 1233 eliminates township governments, dissolves fire territories and districts, and centralizes control under county leadership, risking slower response times and reduced local input. Contact your state representatives immediately to voice strong opposition to this bill and protect the safety and independence of our communities," reads a statement from the IVFA. 

Learn more at House Bill 1233 at https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/house/1233/details.