A needs assessment from an objective third party determined that 240 jail beds are needed today. 350 jail beds would help prepare Saline County for the future. Labor costs for running an antiquated facility is fiscally irresponsible. Only one fire department in Saline County is a totally paid department. Volunteers are required to not only have a minimum number of training hours, but must maintain annual certifications in areas of expertise.
Volunteer firefighters continue to dwindle in virtually all departments.
23 departments operate a rescue unit in addition to normal firefighting operations. ISO ratings determine homeowners insurance premiums. A majority of the departments have the least desirable ISO ratings.