2-14-24 

RRFR Recognized at the Capitol 

& Oregon Fire Caucus Meeting

Hello everyone, 

    Last week was a very busy week for the Row River Board of Directors. During the week, Board members Walt, Sue, and Kathleen met with many representatives from our State and Federal government to advocate for emergency fire infrastructure as well as equipment support for our rural community. 

    Compared to last year, our efforts have been noticed at all levels of government, which is promising. All representatives are impressed by our progress; in less than 1 year we have established: 

• First in Oregon public/private fire response service with SLCFR. 
• A professionally trained and equipped community volunteer firefighter response team. 
• A plan for fire stations and operations that drastically improves fire and emergency responses within our community. 
• A plan for operational services that meet ISO requirements for a safer community and increased access to homeowners’ insurance at significantly lower costs. 
• Secured property sites for a main Fire Station and Emergency Operations center as well as free lease Satellite Stations strategically located throughout the valley. 
• A formal petition for the Row River Rural Fire Protection District, on the ballot for community approval May 21, 2024. This is the fastest this has ever been done! 

    On Thursday, Board members spent the day at the Oregon State Capitol. Row River Fire Response was a featured guest of our own Senator Hayden who introduced us in the Senate Chambers to all Senators, including an update on our progress. Afterwards, our Board members spent the day visiting every Senator’s office, advocating for improved fire and emergency services in our valley. 

    On Friday, Row River Fire Response was a featured guest of the Special District Association of Oregon Fire Caucus meeting, where Fire Chiefs from across the state, county and state administrators, insurance representatives, State Fire Marshal, as well as our State Legislators come together to discuss important issues of the times. Walt was asked to give a presentation on our community’s progress for improved fire services which was very well received. After Walt’s presentation, audience members yelled out ‘how can we help?’ and ‘What equipment do you need?’ At the conclusion of the meeting, 12 or more fire district representatives came forward to offer us all types of equipment, engines, and even possibly a water tender. We were humbled to be a part of a group of people who genuinely care and want our community to be safer and more resilient. 

Our progress is evident; our community goals and efforts are recognized across the State! 

The Goals are fourfold to achieve a resilient firesafe community: 

• Volunteer Responders. We have committed, trained volunteer firefighters, 20 strong and ready to serve. 
• Equipment. We have much of the equipment we need including fire engines, SCBA, personal protective equipment, and much more! 

The 2 remaining goals:

• Funding and building a Main Fire Station and Emergency Operations Center. RRFR will continue to advocate at the State and Federal level for capital funding to build this project. Numerous private funding opportunities are underway as well.

• Creation of the Row River Rural Fire Protection District on May 21, 2024. Help protect the community we call home. 

Thanks for your support, 

Walt Bernard for the Row River Fire Response Board