Mississippi’s Columbus Earns Improved Fire Rating

A new ranking for the Columbus Fire Department could mean reduced insurance rates for home and business owners.

The Commercial Dispatch reported that the Mississippi Rating Bureau has rated Columbus a “four,” up from the “five” rating i has held for three decades.

Columbus joins other Mississippi cities ranked four on a scale of 10, with 10 being the lowest rating. The other cities include Biloxi, Gulfport, Tupelo, Greenwood, Meridian and Hattiesburg.

Mayor Robert Smith said the new rating could mean savings for property and business owners.

“This is the first time Columbus has ranked above a five,” Smith said. “This is outstanding for our city. Only two cities have been ranked threes — Jackson and Southaven. There are no ones or twos.”

Savings on insurance for homeowners could be in the 10 percent range and business owners could save 20 percent, Smith said.

Fire Chief Ken Moore said items considered during the ranking process included water systems and water pressure, fire service to the community and fire safety control.

The City Council recently approved the purchase of a new fire truck.

“This new truck will help us maintain our rating,” Moore said.