Sparks rejects firefighting study

SPARKS -- Sparks won't be involved in Washoe County talks on consolidating fire services to save money, the City Council unanimously decided Monday.

They issued a statement saying they don't support consolidating public safety departments "or any effort to change the form of government of Sparks."

The study would have cost the city $17,500. Sparks officials say it would have diverted resources and funds that are needed for more pressing issues.

A study by a California consultant released in February found that consolidating Reno, Truckee Meadows and Sierra fire protection districts could save the region as much as $800,000. Washoe County paid $81,400 for that study.