Nevada County Allocates $1.5M to Keep Fire Station 59 Open Now

URGENT UPDATE: Nevada County has just allocated $1.5 million to keep the Rough and Ready Fire Station 59 operational over the next five years. This decisive move by the Board of Supervisors, announced earlier today, is a crucial step to ensure public safety amid ongoing consolidation efforts between the Rough and Ready and Penn Valley Fire Districts.

The Board’s unanimous decision highlights the urgency of maintaining fire services in the region. Supervisor Sue Hoek emphasized the importance of having reliable fire protection, stating, “Sometimes we don’t realize how important our fire stations are until we need them.” The funding enables Station 59 to remain open during the LAFCo consolidation process, with plans for the Penn Valley Fire District to assume control in the long term.

This financial commitment is part of a broader effort, with Nevada County historically investing over $5.8 million in fire services. These funds, despite the independent management of fire districts, reflect the community’s dedication to safety.

The interim funding is vital for ensuring that Station 59 continues to serve the western Nevada County community while meeting necessary merger requirements. The county is committed to maintaining fire and emergency services during this transition.

According to Nevada County Fire Chief Mark Buttron, the operational stability provided by Station 59 is critical. “Staffing fire station 59 is one of the most impactful steps we can take to strengthen the resilience of our fire system,” he stated. The chief further explained that having this station operational enhances the entire fire services network, making it more balanced and capable of handling increased demands, especially during fire season and severe weather events.

Residents of western Nevada County can breathe a sigh of relief as this funding secures their fire services amid ongoing changes. The decision not only reinforces the community’s safety but also showcases the commitment of local officials to protect their constituents.

As the consolidation process unfolds, all eyes will be on the effective management and operational capabilities of the fire services in the region. The community is urged to stay informed about any further developments regarding this critical public safety initiative.

Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving situation that impacts the safety and security of countless residents in Nevada County.