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Davie County has issued an apology to the Advance Fire Department.

“We were not aware of the letter or action that took place until after it had already been done,” said James Blakley, chair of the board of commissioners, in a release from the county on Tuesday. “The allegations in the letter against Advance Fire Department were not fully investigated by the county. In no way do we approve or condone the handling of the situation. We recognize the damage that has been caused by this action and we are committed to mending the relationship with the Advance Fire Department.”

Former County Manager David Bone went to the fire department last winter with that letter, immediately removing an EMS unit stationed there. Bone later resigned.

Bone had written the letter that outlined perceived problems that EMS crews had while stationed at the department. It turned out that most of those problems were minor and had occurred a long time prior and had already been dealt with.

“The way this whole matter was handled was not reflective of Davie County values and was not in the best interest of the AFD or the citizens of Davie County,” Blakley said. “We value the people of the Advance Fire Department. The actions by the county did not show the respect that these public safety professionals deserve and we will continue to work to try to make things right.”