Is $2 million from Wicomico County to Salisbury for fire service a done deal? Not yet

The fire service agreement between the city of Salisbury and Wicomico County is far from a done deal, with the additional monies still needing the green light from the County Council.

Here's what could come next in the funding drive.

$2 million for Salisbury to cover fire service in works

The temporary agreement proposed by County Executive Julie Giordano addresses service calls outside the city limits by the Salisbury Fire Department by giving them $2 million for one year. In that time, a state analysis will be completed to determine the volume and real cost of such calls.

County Council President John Cannon pointed out that nothing is final, however, until the council has its say.

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"If the administration is suggesting they have a signed agreement with the city, then they need to read the signature page which clearly indicates it's subject to the appropriation by the Wicomico County Council. The executive should understand from the last work session, that in no way, were they inclined to appropriate the $2 million as requested," said Council President John Cannon.

Cannon also noted the council wants to work with the city after they have the opportunity to better see what the Fiscal Year 2025 budget is going to allow.

Giordano, for her part, noted there is no misunderstanding about the terms of the proposed agreement and recognized it was up to county council to release the funds.

"The council president is absolutely correct in stating the appropriations have to come from council," Giordano said. "For any fire service agreement, it's a two-part deal that is the negotiation, contract signing, and appropriation by the council. County council will have a very clear picture when I present a balanced budget in April. Then they can decide if releasing that money is (possible) for Salisbury."

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This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Will Salisbury give Wicomico $2 million for fire services? The latest