Calling the Atlantic City fire department could cost your insurance company

Atlantic City is going to bill property owners’ insurance companies for the costs of fighting fires. A.C.Fire Chief Dennis Brooks says the intent of the ordinance approved by the City Council is to reduce costs and save taxpayers money.

“We don’t want to hurt our residents or businesses but if there’s provisions in insurance for use to recoup costs we feel it’s best for the taxpayers and us to try to recoup what we can recoup,” said Brooks.

No bills for firefighting service would be sent if a property was not insured.

Glassboro in Gloucester County has been using such a system since 2005.  Mayor Leo McCabe says the town collects about $20,000 a year from it.   

“It’s not a big factor but it’s certainly very worthwhile and hopefully we don’t want to be recovering anything because we don’t want any fires, but when they do occur it can be helpful,” said McCabe.

The New Jersey League of Municipalities says other towns may consider the idea to help reduce their expenses.