Elizabeth Mink

The board meeting covers several administrative and financial items, including the designation of bank account signers, review of the tentative fiscal year budget, and the approval of an engagement letter for annual independent audit services. Additionally, the board will discuss consolidating the Ambulance Enterprise Fund with the General Fund, accepting a grant for wildfire risk reduction, and considering approval for a volunteer event. The agenda also includes a performance evaluation for the Fire Chief, as well as the review of district bills and various department reports.

The Board meeting included the presentation of Life-Saving Medals to community members for their emergency response actions. Business conducted involved the election of a Board Vice President, review and adoption of the maximum allowable tax rate for the upcoming fiscal year, and approval of the financial report for the previous fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. The Board engaged in a discussion regarding the scholarship program, approved an engagement letter for legal counsel services, and authorized an interlocal contract with the Nevada Health Authority for ambulance services. Additionally, the Board reviewed department reports, approved expenditures, and authorized various staff travel requests for training and fleet-related operations.

The Board of Directors meeting included the presentation of a Lifesaver Award for emergency response actions at a local high school, approval of a revised memorandum of understanding regarding uniform allowances, and the scheduling of the upcoming May board meeting. The Board voted to terminate the district's annual scholarship program following a legal review regarding funding authority and approved both an audit corrective action plan and financial reports. Comprehensive operational reports were delivered covering firefighting activities, budget development, fire marshal inspections, and grant planning. Additionally, the Board discussed the procedural requirements for the Fire Chief's six-month evaluation, clarifying that it must be conducted in an open meeting.

The meeting included the unanimous approval of the agenda and the election of Board officers for 2026, appointing Chuck as President and Jenny as Vice President. The Board discussed and approved three Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the Firefighters Association concerning Article 31 (PERS), Article 28 (Holiday Pay), and Article 10 (Association Business), resulting in a total estimated fiscal impact of $220,529.44. The Board opted to take no action regarding the continuation of HR legal services with the current firm, directing staff to explore alternative options, including insurance coverage alternatives. The Fire Chief reported on organizational planning, community engagement, infrastructure coordination for the Six Mile Canyon Bridge replacement, and the successful implementation of Phase 1 of the First Due CAD interface. The Fire Marshal provided an update on construction delays for the 7-Eleven project and outlined a plan to implement an operational permit program for commercial occupancies to enhance division self-sufficiency. Financially, the Board approved monthly financial reports and expenditures totaling $1,319,491.32 and approved ambulance write-offs for November and December totaling $133,987.87. The audit process was discussed, with findings expected at the next meeting.

Key discussions during the meeting included the presentation of an award and badge pinning for Shane Nollsch as Division Chief. The Board adopted the Fire Chief's annual priorities and expectations. The Fire Chief reported on community representation, labor-management discussions, efforts to acquire surplus fire apparatus like a Type 1 engine and a boom truck, and the importance of commercial development for financial sustainability. Operational reports detailed November response statistics, including 369 total responses and 289 EMS responses, and mutual aid activity. The Fire Marshal updated the Board on development activities, including numerous residential projects, completed inspections, successful testimony resulting in arson convictions, and upcoming courtesy presentations to the Board of County Commissioners. Risk Reduction efforts focused on fuel reduction projects under a grant and coordinating Christmas tree collection. Finally, the Board approved the Financial Report for November and authorized travel for the Fire Chief to attend an Advanced Incident Management Course.