Carter County to staff two VFD’s with rescue squad staff for new pilot program

The Carter County Commission approved a measure creating a pilot program with the rescue squad to staff people at two fire departments to help with weekday daytime emergency response coverage. The program will involve stationing one employee each at the Elk Mills/Poga Volunteer Fire Department and the Roan Mountain Volunteer Fire Department. County Commissioner Jason Clawson said the pilot program will run for one year, and adjustments will be made if necessary. If the program is successful, the county will look into making it permanent. During the first year, the rescue squad will provide quarterly status updates to commissioners.