Fire and EMS protection changed for more thousands of people this week.
On July 1, several local fire departments merged, including the St. Matthews and Lyndon Fire Protection Districts.
Gary Doyle, who owns a business in Lyndon, said the move is a plus for taxpayers.
"Anytime you can put more units on the street, in closer proximity ... it makes all the difference in the world, especially when you are dealing with cardiac emergencies, strokes," Doyle said. "Time makes all the difference."
The merger is expected to enhance fire and rescue services in both districts, reduce response times and provide EMS services at two Lyndon fire houses.