Media Release

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - On Wednesday, September 30^th, 2009 at 5:30 pm, at the Waldo Fire Station (263 SW 2^nd Way, Waldo), a transitional ceremony will occur transferring fire responsibilities from the City of Waldo to the Alachua County Department of Public Safety.  The Waldo Fire Department will join the Alachua County Department of Public Safety as fire and EMS services will fall under the responsibility of the County's umbrella.  This organizational structure will become effective on October 1^st, and is part of the Master Plan to streamline services to citizens in the County.  Not only will the merger of the Waldo Fire Department into the Alachua County Public Safety Department more efficiently and effectively provide service to the citizens, it will also save the City of Waldo money as funding transitions from the City to the County Fire MSTU, which the City has just joined.

The six current career employees of the City of Waldo's Fire Department will continue their career in fire services with the Alachua County Department of Public Safety.  Alachua County Department of Public Safety Chief Will May sees the merge and reorganization as a positive move to provide service to the citizens of Waldo.  "As part of the Master Plan, when agencies have the opportunity to provide more efficient and effective service to citizens, it is a win-win scenario for all involved.  The Department of Public Safety is looking forward to the opportunity to serve the residents of Waldo and continue the distinguished service in the County citizens have come to expect."

Commissioner Rodney Long will be present to speak on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners regarding the reorganizational alignment.

For more information, contact Carol Davis, Alachua County Department of Public Safety, Public Information Officer, at 352-384-3110.