By Anton Riecher
Volunteer firefighters in Hondo who ceased operations in November in a contract dispute with Medina County Emergency Services District No. 6 brought their grievances to the Medina County Commissioners Court Monday.
Hondo Volunteer Fire Department president Phillip Batteau told commissioners that ESDs have a responsibility to ensure funding for fire protection and medical response in their communities.
“Unfortunately, Medina County Emergency Services District No. 6 has failed to meet these goals, leaving our community in a precarious situation,” Batteau said.
Hondo VFD decided in October to terminate their contract with ESD6, citing lack of transparency in its decision making on funding emergency equipment and operations. The volunteers also rejected an attempt by the ESD board of commissioners to appoint a new fire chief without their approval.
As of late November, ESD6 has taken direct charge of fire protection by hiring its own firefighters. ESD1 in Castroville has also lent assistance in maintaining fire protection.
Speaking during the public comments portion of the county commissioners agenda, Batteau said that of the estimated $1.9 million in taxes collected by ESD6 last year, less than…
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