MADISON, Fla. (WTXL) - Madison County leaders are taking steps to keep people safer on the roads and in their homes.
Two Florida House bills to make texting while driving a primary offense are working their way through the Legislature. Wednesday night, the Madison County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution showing their support for stricter laws.
"I've known of a couple of young people who've lost their lives because of that very reason," said Wayne Vickers, Madison Co. Board of County Commissioners Chairman. "I think if enough of us show support, they'll look at [the bills]."
The board also said "yes" to drafting an intergovernmental agreement between the county and the Town of Greenville.
Greenville wants help adding 24-hour emergency services. Right now, medics have to drive about 15 miles from Madison to respond. In an emergency, that time is precious.
"We think this is critical," said Edward Dean, Greenville Town Manager. "Between someone calling 911 and the time that you get assistance is about 20-25 minutes. Having someone more centralized and localized down in Greenville will substantially cut that time down.
"Our firefighter department is ready to go," Dean continued. "It's already cleaned out, it's up to snuff."
County EMS workers are already in the process of getting firefighter training to expand their skills.
Madison County and Greenville will now work together to hammer out the exact details of the agreement. Then, the plan will go back to the Board of County Commissioners for final approval.
