.png)
Voters in Pend Oreille County are being asked to consider an important decision about the future of fire and emergency services. Proposition 1, which proposes the merger of Pend Oreille Fire District 4 and Pend Oreille Fire District 2, is not about politics or expansion for its own sake. It is about providing reliable, timely emergency services while being responsible with taxpayer dollars.
As a Fire Commissioner and a career fire service professional, I have spent decades responding to emergencies and working to ensure departments are prepared to meet the needs of their communities. I believe strongly that Proposition 1 is in the best interest of taxpayers and the people we serve.
Across rural communities, fire districts are facing growing challenges. Volunteer response continues to decline as people work farther from home, and family commitments increase. At the same time, the demand for emergency medical services and fire protection is rising. Costs are increasing, yet taxpayers rightly expect efficiency, accountability, and professionalism.
Doing nothing is not a responsible option. One of the most significant benefits of this merger is increased manpower. By combining two districts into one unified organization, we can put more trained firefighters and EMS personnel on scene when emergencies occur. In fire and medical responses, staffing matters are important. Adequate personnel improve response times, increase safety for responders, and lead to better outcomes for patients and property owners. When seconds count, having enough people available can make a life-saving difference.
The merger also improves reliability. Instead of two districts operating independently with limited staffing and overlapping responsibilities, a unified district can better ensure apparatus are staffed and ready to respond. This is particularly important in rural areas, where volunteer availability can vary widely depending on the time of day.
Equally important, Proposition 1 does not raise taxes. In fact, it results in a modest tax reduction. By eliminating duplicated administrative functions, sharing equipment and facilities, and operating more efficiently, the merged district can reduce costs while improving service. This is exactly what taxpayers should expect from local government: better service delivered more efficiently.
Some have expressed concerns that a merger could reduce local control or service levels. In my experience, the opposite is true. This merger protects local fire protection by ensuring long-term sustainability. Without proactive planning, districts may eventually be forced to choose between reduced service or higher levies just to maintain basic operations. Proposition 1 avoids those outcomes by addressing challenges now, rather than waiting until options are limited.
As Fire Commissioner, my responsibility is to look beyond immediate pressures and make decisions that protect public safety and public trust for years to come. I have carefully reviewed this proposal, its financial impacts, and its operational benefits. I am confident that this merger strengthens emergency services while respecting the taxpayers who fund them.
Voting yes on Proposition 1 is a vote for increased manpower, improved response, fiscal responsibility, and long-term stability. It is a vote for excellent and timely service without asking taxpayers to pay more.
I respectfully encourage voters to support Proposition 1 and help ensure a safer, more sustainable future for fire and emergency services in our community.
ALAN THOMPSON IS THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS FOR PEND OREILLE FIRE DISTRICT 4.
