Walthourville City Council has announced a fire fee for the coming year for its residents.

In a letter addressed to Walthourville residents, Mayor Sarah B. Hayes said the fire fee went into effect in March after it was passed by the council on February 13.

Each address that receives a water bill in the city will have a $31.60 monthly fire fee imposed.

In the letter to Walthourville residents, Mayor Brown said the fire fee was enacted “in an ongoing effort to manage costs, remain efficient and provide exceptional fire protection” for all city water customers.

The fire fee, Mayor Brown wrote, is a charge for fire protective services provided by the City of Walthourville’s fire department. The revenue from the fire fee can be used only for fire services.

“A fire fee is a financing option that provides an equitable, stable, and dedicated revenue source to support fire services,” Mayor Brown added.

Fire fees, like water, sewer and sanitation fees, go to provide services typically funded through user fees, she wrote.

The fire fee is expected to help the city ensure residents and business owners receive fire protective services at the desired service level, according to the mayor’s letter, and continue to fund fire fighter positions. The fee also will ensure adequate funding for operational and training expenses, enable the city to maintain its ISO rating and protect lives and property through emergency response, education and fire prevention.

“We appreciate your cooperation as we all work together to navigate this new chapter in the City of Walthourville,” Mayor Brown wrote.

Those with questions may call (912) 368-7501.