Local and visiting firefighters, both paid and volunteer, will train to combat wildfires February 19-21 at the Camp Bowie Training Site in Brownwood.  The Central Texas Wildfire Academy is sponsored by the Texas Forest Service and the Dam Volunteer Fire Department.  The goal of this academy is “to offer a variety of training for all those dedicated to protecting lives and property.”

Classes will be from 8am-5pm and include subjects of Basic Engine and Suppression Tactics; Tactical Decision-Making for Fireline Officers; and Wildland Urban Interface Firefighter Safety.  Training tuition grants are offered and available through House Bill 2604 to help volunteer fire departments pay for the cost of the school which is $60 per person.

Chris Weber, representing the Dam Volunteer Fire Department, came to the Brown County Commissioner’s Court meeting Monday and addressed the court regarding the school and to deliver an invitation to the Central Texas Wildfire Academy.  He briefly explained what the academy offered to local and visiting firemen.  Afterwards, Judge Ray West stated, “This county owes more than we can pay out of our budget to the volunteer fire departments”, noting how important and what a service they provide to local citizens.  Steve Adams added, “The Forestry Service will tell you, the Camp Bowie School is one of the best…It’s a great school.” 

Other matters discussed in Monday’s Commissioners Court:

• Tommy Petross of Brown County Farm Bureau addressed the court to discuss proclamation of February 21-27 as Food Check-out Week.  By this time each year, the average American has earned enough income to purchase a years worth of groceries.  This proclamation celebrates the “bounty of American Agriculture”.  The proclamation was passed unanimously.
• Larry Traweek, Precinct #4 discussed, with a helpful explanation from Judge West, that an agreement with Allison & Bass regarding Census Services in redistricting if necessary to prepare maps for Brown County.  Every 10 years after the census it has to be determined if the precincts are divided equally and if not redistricting has to be completed.  An initial fee of $1500 is due on February 20.  If the redistricting is necessary, an additional cost of $14,500 would be payable (which can be divided up into two other payments by September 2011. This item was passed unanimously.
• Sharon Ferguson, County Clerk discussed consideration and approval of records management funds project.  There are some records books that are very old and in need of repair at a cost of $11,500.  There is $40,000 left in the archive fund.