County Approves Interlocal Agreement with Marianna
By: Shelia Mader
The Jackson County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a modified interlocal agreement with the City of Marianna for fire protection services during its meeting Tuesday night.
The agreement, now formally titled the “Marianna Fire Station 16 Interlocal Agreement between Jackson County and the City of Marianna,” updates a long-standing partnership that has been in place for more than 50 years.
Under the agreement, the county will continue paying the city $65,000 annually for fire protection services. Beginning in October 2026, the annual compensation will increase to $75,000. The agreement will remain in effect until either party chooses to terminate it.
County Administrator Jim Dean explained that one of the major changes is the removal of an escalator clause that would have automatically increased payments over time. Commissioner Paul Donofro, who previously expressed concerns about the escalator provision, said he was pleased to see it removed.
Another key component of the agreement is continued full-time fire protection within a five-mile radius of both Marianna fire stations. Dean clarified that the coverage area is measured by road miles and includes a five-mile radius from both Station 16 and the city’s main station.
Commissioner Donnie Branch confirmed that the coverage area extends nearly to U.S. 231 and asked whether the city would respond to every fire call within that zone. Dean confirmed that they would.
The agreement also reflects the city’s interest in maintaining a fire station at the Kynesville Highway and Interstate 10 interchange, which officials say supports housing growth and economic development in that area.
Commissioners noted that call volumes for both county and city fire and ambulance services have been increasing in recent years, potentially due in part to the county’s aging population.
Following brief discussion, Dr. Willie Spires made a motion to approve the agreement. Donofro seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously in a 5–0 vote. The Interlocal Agreement will now return to the City of Marianna for their approval.
