Jim Price

The board discussed updates regarding the fire station project, including the status of the purchase and sale agreement and debris collection plans. Significant focus was placed on the Fire Chief hiring process, establishing a salary range, and finalizing job description details. The board also addressed policy revisions concerning public meetings and the fire chief job description. Contract extensions for the Fire Chief and Sensiba LLP were approved, and financial updates, including a significant donation and budget preparation progress, were presented. Additionally, department reports provided insights on call volumes, recruitment, and wildfire training activities.

The special board meeting included a presentation on legislative concepts for recreation enhancement, wildfire resiliency, and conservation for Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge. Concerns were raised regarding fire safety, emergency access, fuels reduction, support for BLM and USFS lands, powerline relocation, wilderness designations, and the lack of dedicated prevention employees. The board discussed the FEMA AFG Grant application, public and emergency access issues due to Hwy 26 capacity, and the need for funding for a new station. The first CBA meeting was also scheduled.

The Hoodland Rural Fire District #74 is presenting its budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026. The budget includes grant funds for summer severity staffing, funds to refurbish E352, additional deposits into the Capital Facilities and Equipment account, funds for architectural and consulting services for a new fire station, and continued funding for community Firewise efforts. The budget is balanced at $39,308,102. The district uses the General Fund, Apparatus Reserve Fund, Facilities and Firefighting Equipment Reserve Fund, a Special Revenue (Station Construction) Fund, and a Debt Service Fund to track resources and expenditures. The Local Option Levy supports operations.

The meeting included board officer elections, reports from the Fire Chief and staff, and financial updates. Discussions covered topics such as a VOIP phone system, vacation policy, and the engagement of Merina+Co as an accountant consultant. The board also addressed declaring surplus property, approving a security camera system, and moving forward with ADP for payroll processing.

The meeting included reports from the Fire Chief and staff, covering topics such as meeting attendance, alarm breakdowns, staff housing, COVID-19 protocols, SCBA evaluations, grants, and USFS correspondence. Staff reports included updates on new construction, fire and life safety codes, inspections, burn permits, fire prevention programs, and the Spire Grant Award. The board discussed the VOIP phone system, new policies regarding pay administration, vacation, sick leave, and holidays. Additionally, there was an executive session to discuss CBA negotiations.