County asserts ownership claim of Franklin fire assets

Key Takeaways:

• Surry County claims ownership of Franklin Fire Department’s building and equipment
• The county attorney cites “many, many, millions of dollars” in investments
• The dispute focuses on whether financial support translates to asset ownership
• The future operation of the Franklin Fire Department may be affected

Surry County’s Longstanding Investment

Surry County officials have declared that they have poured “many, many, millions of dollars” into supporting the Franklin Fire Department through the years. According to the county attorney, this history of substantial funding is the primary basis for a recent assertion of ownership over the department’s building and equipment.

A Debate Over Ownership

At the heart of the issue is whether the millions invested by the county give it legal rights to Franklin’s fire station and critical equipment. While details about how these funds were apportioned remain limited, the county attorney holds firm that this prolonged support entitles Surry County to claim the assets.

Implications for Franklin Fire Department

The ownership question could have significant implications for local emergency services. Control of the physical building, as well as the department’s gear, may determine how resources are managed moving forward. Despite the dispute, the county has not publicly elaborated on how it plans to manage the properties if its claim is sustained.

Despite the uncertainties, one thing is clear: Surry County believes its substantial financial role in keeping Franklin’s fire services operational places the county squarely at the center of deciding—and ultimately owning—those services’ assets.