City of Elkhart's fire protection rating improves to Class 2

Elkhart Mayor Tim Neese announced Tuesday the city's Public Protection Classification has been raised to Class 2.

The improved ISO rating is due to the fire department's faster emergency response times, equipment upgrades and a better water supply system.

The improved rating could make insurance rates go down.

"I would suggest that businesses as well as individuals follow up and perhaps that they themselves can find that there's the possibility of having lower premiums but as a community this is a very significant accomplishment," Mayor Neese said.

There are no cities in Indiana with a higher rating.