Baltimore County could soon stop making volunteer fire companies compete for used county gear on the open market. New legislation would make it easier for those emergency crews to receive surplus vehicles and equipment that might otherwise be sold to the highest bidder.
Councilman David Marks introduced the measure Monday at the Baltimore County Council, and Nino Mangione agreed to co-sponsor it, according to The Avenue News. Baltimore County currently sells surplus vehicles and equipment through bidding or auction, but the bill would allow the county administrative officer to approve a donation or sale to another worthy nonprofit when the transfer benefits the county.
The proposal would add another tool to a public-safety system that already relies on career and volunteer crews working side by side. Baltimore County budget documents describe volunteer fire companies as providing fire and ambulance service to residents and visitors, with the county’s fiscal year 2026 operating budget listing more than $10.4 million for grants, subsidies and contributions to the program.
Why Volunteer Companies Are Getting Priority
Baltimore County has 29 volunteer fire companies, and Marks said they should be “first in line” for surplus vehicles and equipment because of their role in emergency response. The announcement at White Marsh Volunteer Fire Company included volunteers and paramedics from Bowleys Quarters, Kingsville, Middle River and Long Green, according to The Avenue News.
The legislation also continues a broader push to support the county’s volunteer system, which has faced the same expensive equipment and staffing pressures confronting fire companies around the region. Baltimore County’s fiscal year 2026 budget increased the Volunteer Incentive for Attendants Program from $35 to $50 per hour, a change the county budget message says was spearheaded by Marks and Councilman Pat Young.
Vote Set For September
The County Council is scheduled to hold its legislative session and vote on the bill at 6 p.m. September 21, according to the Baltimore County Council calendar. If approved, the measure would give the county another way to move usable public assets into the hands of local nonprofits that help protect Baltimore County communities.
