April 10, 2026 - On Thursday, April 9th, members representing six of Shelby County's seven volunteer fire departments met at Joaquin VFD's Central Station to discuss reaffirming the Shelby County Firefighters Association (SCFFA). The association was originally formed in 1990, with Articles of Incorporation and a set of rules and bylaws drafted, to create an organization to support joint training and mutual aid within the county.
With the hard part already done, the biggest order of business was to re-organize the Board of Directors, which is comprised of the seven fire chiefs, and elect new officers. Officer positions must be filled by the rank and file of the seven departments.
Joaquin VFD Assistant Chief Stephen Ewing was nominated for president of the association, and elected with a majority vote. Huxley VFD Assistant Chief Michael Elliot was elected 1st Vice President, and Timpson Training Officer Tony Acosta was chosen as 2nd Vice President. Tenaha VFD Secretary/ Treasurer Truitt Whitley was elected to serve in the same capacity of the SCFFA.
Ewing led a discussion about the priorities of the association, which were agreed to be funding for the departments, creating a workable mutual aid network, and renewing a focus on joint training efforts. The association, per its bylaws, will meet no less than three times yearly, with the next meeting set for July 9th at Timpson VFD.
