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Baker Rural Fire Protection District (BRFPD) has had the same assessment of 67 cents per $1,000 since 1985. They are asking for a 5-year levy of an additional 93 cents per $1,000. The money from the levy can only be used for operations.

This agency relies on volunteers to fight fires and assist EMS outside the city limits. They also have a mutual aid agreement with the city and all other rural fire districts in the county to respond to fires that need more help. This requires personal safety gear for each trained volunteer along with the equipment to fight the fires and assist EMS. Currently there are not enough proper fitting turnouts for all of the volunteers.

In 2014, BRFPD had 22 call outs. In 2023 they had 138. There is obviously more need.

In 1985 minimum wage was $3.05/hour, diesel .78/gallon, turnout gear approximately $500. Now diesel is $4.20/gal, turnouts $4,800, tires, insurance, repairs, etc. have all become so expensive. Could any of us manage our business/household if we made the same amount of money as we did in 1985?

BRFPD have applied for many grants to help with necessary repairs and upgrades. They have received some of these grants; which often come with restrictions on exactly how the money can be spent.

The meetings for BRFPD are open to the public! I suggest that you attend some to find out what is happening and if there is anything that you can do to help.

Vote yes on 1-123.

Kate Rohner

Baker County