07/08/2026
City of Hartford Announces Beginning of Paid Firefighter Coverage
HARTFORD, Ky. — The City of Hartford is proud to announce that the Hartford Fire Department will begin scheduled paid firefighter coverage this Sunday, marking a historic milestone in the department’s 121-year history and a significant investment in the future of public safety for our community.
Approved as part of the Fiscal Year 2026–2027 budget by the Hartford City Council following Mayor Beau Wright’s proposal, the addition of part-time, paid firefighter coverage is designed to strengthen emergency response, improve recruitment and retention, and support the dedicated volunteer firefighters who have faithfully served Hartford for generations.
“Having served in the Hartford Fire Department for more than 20 years, I have seen firsthand the dedication of our firefighters and the challenges created by the decline in volunteer numbers,” said Mayor Beau Wright. “This investment is an important step toward strengthening our department, improving public safety, and ensuring we continue providing the level of service our community deserves.”
Established in 1905, the Hartford Fire Department provides fire protection and emergency response throughout its 122-square-mile fire district, serving approximately 6,116 residents. While the City of Hartford has a smaller municipal population, the department’s fire district extends beyond the city limits to ensure timely emergency response throughout the service area. In 2025, the department responded to 425 calls, demonstrating its vital role in protecting lives and property across the district.
Beginning this Sunday, the Hartford Fire Department will transition from an all-volunteer department to a combination fire department by introducing scheduled paid firefighter coverage. These paid positions are part-time and intended to support the department’s volunteer firefighters.
At this time, the paid positions are being filled through internal promotions. Those selected will complete the City’s standard employment application and hiring process before assuming their new roles.
Mayor Wright also expressed his appreciation for the members of the Hartford Fire Department and the leadership of Fire Chief Billy Henderson.
“Our firefighters have always answered the call to serve, often sacrificing time with their families and responding whenever our community needed them,” Wright said. “We are incredibly proud of each member of the department and grateful for their unwavering commitment. Under Chief Henderson’s leadership, the department continues to pursue grants, improve equipment, and seek opportunities to better serve our citizens.”
While this announcement represents an important step forward, city officials view it as part of a long-term commitment to strengthening emergency services.
“This is about investing in the future,” Wright said. “As Hartford continues to grow and the demands on emergency services evolve, we want our fire department to be prepared to meet those challenges. Today’s investment builds on the strong foundation created by generations of volunteer firefighters and positions our department for continued success in the years ahead.”
The City of Hartford extends its sincere appreciation to every firefighter, past and present, whose dedication has built the department into what it is today.
Through continued investment in its people, equipment, and operations, the City remains committed to providing dependable, professional emergency services while supporting those who answer the call to protect our community.
