As population grows in WNC’s once-rural areas, the model of volunteer-based fire and rescue services is giving way to bigger budgets, more training and significant numbers of paid staff. How are the departments keeping up with the changes, and should they be required to conform to the same requirements for transparency and public oversight as other organizations funded by property taxes?
Dozens of Asheville firefighters shaved their heads to raise funds for childhood cancer research. Rob Mitchell and Fire Chief Scott Burnette take their turns in the chair. (photo by Bill Rhodes)
After the 2005 and 2008 gas shortages due to hurricanes hitting the Gulf Coast, the city of Asheville developed reserves and a conservation plan. With Hurricane Isaac moving towards the same area, Asheville Fire Department Chief Scott Burnette says the city is well-prepared. It was a common sight on I-26 during the 2008 gas shortage – tourists bringing extra gasoline with them to Asheville. (photo by Bill Rhodes)
After months of intensive internal investigations, the Asheville Fire Department has released the 522-page final report on the July 28, 2011, incident and the death of Capt. Jeff Bowen.
