Belle Isle lays out fire department plan to residents

BELLE ISLE, Fla. — Belle Isle's city manager apologized to residents for not informing them about the city's plans to cut ties with Orange County and establish its own fire department.

On Tuesday the city laid out its proposal before the public.

Many residents weren't pleased by the plan and packed city hall to express their displeasure.   

"There are holes so big in this feasibility study we can drive fire trucks through it," said Andrew Thompson, president of a homeowners association in the city.

City leaders said it would cost about the same to establish its own department and said they have hired a fire chief.

Residents said they are concerned with response times and how financially sound the plan is long-term.

According to the city's website, Belle Isle will have its own fire department by Oct. 1.

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