Ellettsville Proposes Full-Time Fire, EMS Support for Bean Blossom Township

Written from press release

ELLETTSVILLE, Ind. — August 27, 2025

The Town of Ellettsville has submitted a proposal to provide full-time fire and emergency medical services to Bean Blossom Township beginning in 2026, offering a plan that town officials say will strengthen public safety without immediate costs to township residents.

The proposal, developed with the Ellettsville Fire Department, would cover the first two years of service at no cost to Bean Blossom. In the third year, the town would receive $90,000 — the same amount the township currently budgets for its volunteer fire department. Compensation would continue in 2029 with modest adjustments tied to budget growth.

“For decades, Ellettsville Fire has responded to emergency calls in Stinesville and the surrounding Bean Blossom area simply as a good neighbor,” Ellettsville Town Manager Mike Farmer said in a statement. “We’ve done so without compensation because we believe in protecting our community. But now, with the area’s volunteer fire department struggling to remain operational, it’s time for a more permanent and reliable solution.”

Under the agreement, Ellettsville would assume ownership of the township’s fire equipment, ensure 24/7 staffing, and provide integration with Monroe County’s 911 dispatch system. Fire Chief Kevin Patton said the plan would eliminate delays in emergency response.

“Right now, there’s often a 6-minute delay before we’re even called to a scene in Bean Blossom,” Patton said. “With this agreement, Ellettsville would be the first to respond. No delays, no confusion, just immediate help when it’s needed most.”

Officials say the alternative to Ellettsville’s plan could cost Bean Blossom residents more than $900,000 annually to cover about 200 calls per year.

Town leaders have spent months presenting the proposal at public meetings and said they believe it provides a sustainable, cost-effective option while improving safety.

The proposal is now under review by the Bean Blossom Township trustee as part of 2026 service planning. Until a decision is made, Ellettsville Fire officials said they will continue responding to emergencies in the area as they have in the past.

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