John Rose of Oak Bluffs on Financial Issues Fire Departments Face

Operating a volunteer fire department is expensive, says John Rose of Oak Bluffs. Similar to many industries, every year, the cost of doing business rises while operating budgets tend to go down or hover at the previous year’s rates.

Because of this, balancing changes in the industry and the economy without compromising safety and effectiveness can be next to impossible.

Similarly, John Rose of Oak Bluffs says that because of unclear organizational structures and municipal constraints, many volunteer fire departments find themselves at a direct disadvantage when trying to secure the essential equipment needed for their jobs, as well as the administrative support programs required to stay effective and efficient.

For example, even if upgraded or innovative technology in fire stations can promote better safety and performance overall, these solutions will most likely carry high price tags or even expensive add-on plans.

Also, although most vendors are willing to work with fire departments for a more customized fit, this blending of old and new technology can lead to even bigger issues with maintenance and installation costs, especially if not properly planned and orchestrated.

In addition, while a whole lot of external funding and grant programs exist, there are bureaucratic roadblocks and contradictory use clauses, as well as numerous process inefficiencies at all levels. These often leave fire departments with the greatest need struggling for support.

Even worse, because of all the varying standards and ambiguous stipulations typically attached to these programs, department officials may very well be having a tough time navigating the grant process or achieving any real results without incurring additional costs for specialized assistance or guidance.

As we look ahead, John Rose of Oak Bluffs says that all the challenges posed by changing societal norms and all the issues brought about by shifting fiscal priorities only mean that volunteer fire organizations have to maintain awareness of where their agency is at where it’s going. They also need to know and understand what it needs to get there.

Even if volunteer fire agencies may function and work tirelessly as mission-driven organizations, the reality is that they must also employ business management processes to assess their organizations’ future.

For this and many other reasons, fact-based operational insight and strategic thinking will need to play vital roles in steering and stabilizing the direction of the country’s volunteer fire departments throughout the years and decades to come, adds John Rose of Oak Bluffs.

John Rose of Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard, excelled as a multi-sport athlete in high school, notably leading the golf team as captain. With certifications including Fire Prevention Officer and Fire Officer 1, John demonstrates a strong commitment to public safety. In his free time, he embraces both his community dedication and an adventurous spirit. Dedicated to Oak Bluffs, John Rose strives to positively impact the lives of its residents. For more of his insights on his work, visit this page.