Keep North Bench Fire Station 1 where it belongs

The North Bench Fire District faces its most consequential decision yet. At the May 8 town hall, members must decide what kind of department they want—and how to fund it. 

Do we remain a volunteer district focused on home fires and vehicle accidents, or expand into costly woodland-fire operations across other counties and states? Do we raise membership dues to sustain our Insurance Services Organization Level 5 rating, or convert to a taxing district that could raise property taxes by 20 to 68 percent—with future levies adding even more tax increases?

Equally urgent is the fate of Fire Station 1. Our lease at the Boundary County Airport expires in three years. The airport has indicated it must charge fair market value for any extension — $30,000 to $45,000 a year. That’s unaffordable and would effectively evict the district.

Yet there’s a clear, lawful alternative. FAA policy allows the county to classify the fire department as aeronautical support for aircraft rescue and emergency response. Under that designation, the district could remain at its current site under a cost-recovery agreement—saving roughly $250,000 and preserving vital emergency coverage for the airport and surrounding community.

Before the May 19 election, every member should know where the Boundary County commissioners stand. 

Attend the May 8 town hall at 6:30 p.m. at Station 1. This is the moment to protect our fire district, our homes, and our voice in how it’s funded.

JON-PAUL MICKLE

Moyie Springs