This year, though, the budget emergency may force it to occur in order to save both entities money.

"The savings would be in the millions if we consolidate the city with the county," said Jerry Newfarmer, president of Management Partners.

Newfarmer said the number could reach three million dollars a year.

The savings are real, but Newfarmer admitted that implementing the plans would be a technical nightmare.

During a Monday meeting, Newfarmer talked about combining fire departments in the county, ONN's Lot Tan reported.

Not everyone agrees that it would be a financial success.

Blue Ash Fire Chief Rick Brown isn't against merging with another department if it's done for the right reasons.

Blue Ash and three other fire departments recently formed the Northeast Collaborative to save money and resources. He is worried that the Hamilton county and Cincinnati plan will not result in big savings.

Brown said their efforts provide each community with a high level of service, not just savings.

"I don't think there are any departments in Hamilton county that overstaff firefighters. If we have fire, we need assistance from surrounding communities," said Brown.

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