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

URGENT UPDATE: Nevada County officials have just announced a decisive plan to allocate $1.5 million to keep the Rough and Ready Fire Station 59 operational for the next five years. This unanimous decision by the Board of Supervisors is aimed at ensuring public safety amid ongoing consolidation efforts between the Rough and Ready and Penn Valley Fire Districts.

Supervisor Sue Hoek emphasized the critical need for this funding, stating, “Sometimes we don’t realize how important our fire stations are until we need them.” This funding guarantees the continued operation of Station 59 while the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo) oversees the consolidation process with Penn Valley Fire District poised to assume control in the long term.

The funding is vital for maintaining essential emergency services in western Nevada County. Historically, the county has supported its fire services with over $5.8 million in various financial forms, demonstrating a strong commitment to community safety. The current funding ensures that Station 59 meets necessary requirements during the merger, securing uninterrupted fire and emergency services for local residents.

Mark Buttron, the Fire Chief for Grass Valley and Nevada City, highlighted the operational significance of this funding, stating, “Staffing fire station 59 is one of the most impactful steps we can take to strengthen the resilience of our fire system.” He added that this stability is essential, especially during fire season, severe weather, and high-risk community events, allowing the fire services to effectively respond to increased activity.

This decision comes at a critical time, as the community’s safety depends on reliable fire services. The Rough and Ready Fire Station not only serves as a crucial emergency response center but also represents the determination of Nevada County to protect its inhabitants. The funding, arriving during a period of change, underscores the county’s commitment to ensuring that essential services remain intact while planning for future consolidations.

The Board of Supervisors’ decision is expected to have immediate implications for public safety, providing assurance to residents that their emergency services will not be compromised during the transition. As the consolidation process unfolds, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how this funding impacts the operational capabilities of fire services in the region.

As the situation develops, community members are encouraged to stay informed about potential changes in fire service operations and how these may affect their safety. The ongoing support for Station 59 is a testament to the community’s resilience and commitment to safeguarding its residents.