Monroe Review

State Representative Jamie Thompson is advocating for public safety funding in Flat Rock as part of state budget discussions. Thompson has requested $1 million for a new fire truck for the Flat Rock Fire Department, emphasizing the need due to the current truck's age and unreliability.

Fire Chief Derrick Welton testified before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor and Economic Opportunity about the request. He highlighted that their main truck is 35 years old, well beyond its recommended service time. "This is our only frontline fire engine," Welton said, noting its unreliability forces them to use a ladder truck unsuitable for certain emergencies. The new vehicle would consolidate three vehicles into one, offering an economical solution.

Welton estimated that the department receives around 15 calls monthly requiring the fire truck. The funding request would cover the entire cost of a new model, priced at approximately $790,000.

Thompson has been a strong supporter of local public safety funding during her legislative term. She backed bills establishing the Public Safety Trust Fund, which would allocate over $52,000 annually to Flat Rock for officer recruitment and equipment upgrades. Other areas represented by Thompson would also benefit from increased funding.

"I will continue fighting to make our communities safer places to work, live and raise their families," Thompson stated. She stressed that rising operational costs necessitate these investments for public safety in Monroe and Wayne counties.

PHOTO INFORMATION: State Rep. Jamie Thompson invited Flat Rock Fire Chief Derrick Welton to testify on a budget funding request for a new fire truck on Wednesday, July 23.