Tell commissioners to reject NBVFD request

Paradise Valley Fire District recently released its FY27 budget request: $279,000. PVFD operates a department strikingly similar to North Bench Volunteer Fire Department, and that number is identical to the $279,000 NBVFD reported as income in its 2025 Treasurer’s Report.

This comparison matters as NBVFD members prepare for the County Commissioners’ public hearing on converting NBVFD into a taxing district on August 25 at 5:30 p.m. at Bonners Ferry High School.

The key question members should bring is straightforward: If PVFD can operate two stations, ten firefighters, and eight fire vehicles on $279,000 per year, why can’t NBVFD operate three stations, twenty firefighters, and nine vehicles on a budget reasonably close to that amount?

Even assuming NBVFD needs 30% more due to its larger footprint, a realistic annual budget would be about $362,000, still far below the numbers NBVFD leadership has floated. The Board President suggested $1.6 million per year. The Vice President proposed $600,000, later reducing it to $442,000 after scrutiny.

There is a simpler option: Set NBVFD membership dues at $250 per household, generating roughly $362,000 annually, enough to meet a realistic operating budget without forming a taxing district.

This approach avoids creating a new government agency, avoids new elections, and preserves local control. It protects families from steep property-tax increases, keeps seniors in their homes, and maintains the long-standing tradition of neighbors supporting neighbors rather than expanding government.

Ask your county commissioners to reject this petition.

JON-PAUL MICKLE

Moyie Springs