Rich Bauer

The meeting commenced with a guest present to observe operations, followed by a discussion regarding the need to reinstate ambulance service at Greenhorn. Financial matters included a review of ICRMP budgeting, which increased due to new housing units. Key actions included approving claims for October 15th and approving minutes for the September 10th and September 29th meetings. The board approved an Emergency Services Auto Aid Agreement with BC South, the City of Sun Valley, which enhances response capabilities in the Zinc Spur/Buttercup/Valley Club area. A significant portion of the meeting involved presenting wildfire mapping data, which segmented the district geographically and detailed burn history, structure characteristics (like wood roofs), and vegetation types. This data is intended for education, grant applications, and planning. Updates were provided on staffing Greenhorn Station, the successful testing of all fire hoses, and the ordering of a new pickup truck. The Sun Valley Fire Department report highlighted the immediate value of the new staffing model at Greenhorn, response statistics surpassing the previous year's total calls, and the successful acquisition of a $240,000 fuel mitigation grant. The City Administrator discussed utilizing the new maps for education and code work, and confirmed intent to update agreements with Ketchum Fire District for both fire and EMS. Training standardization across agencies was emphasized. Finally, discussions touched upon ongoing financial reconciliation and exploring future property expansion at Griffin Butte, as well as Chairman Gray's consideration of proposing a future district levy.

The meeting included the approval of claims from December 10th, 2025, which prompted discussion regarding two uncashed checks from 2022 and 2024. The board reviewed and approved the FY 2026 Contract for Services with the Blaine County Emergency Communication Center, noting that the dispatch director position remains unfilled due to local housing challenges, leading to a discussion on potential workforce housing solutions. The board approved Resolution 2025-03 for the 2026 Meeting Schedule and Resolution 2025-04 for 2026 Recurring Expenses. A significant portion of the meeting involved reviewing and approving an updated Housing Agreement for Greenhorn Station, which included increasing the required shift work from six shifts per year to one shift per month and implementing an average 3% rent increase. Reports covered the ongoing efforts to advocate for dispatchers as first responders under the PERSI retirement rule update, support for the 81-unit workforce housing project near the hospital, the arrival of a new command vehicle, and fuel mitigation projects funded by a grant for the City of Sun Valley. Updates were also provided on potential future ambulance district levy on the May 2026 ballot and plans to address lighting and signage concerns at Greenhorn Station.

The meeting included a public hearing and discussion on the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. The budget process involved collaboration between the North Blaine County Fire District, the City of Sun Valley, and the Blaine County Ambulance District, with no changes recommended to the proposed budget. Discussions also covered staffing at Greenhorn, potential future revenue sources, and the creation of a policy regarding reserve levels. The meeting also included a discussion regarding claims, fire response, and the installation of water cisterns. The hiring of two new staff members was announced. Updates were provided on upgrades to the new Duty Quarters.

The meeting included discussions on rejoining the Idaho Fire Commissioners' Association Membership, transitioning contracts and financials to the North Blaine County Fire District name, upcoming wildfire season preparations, and meetings with County Commissioners regarding housing and county medical. There was also discussion regarding the Bald Mountain Repeater Lease and communication issues with Ketchum Fire. The Sun Valley Fire Chief reported on the impact of Covid and the department's vaccination efforts, as well as the increasing size and complexity of new housing construction. The possibility of applying for a Safer grant to staff Greenhorn Station was discussed and approved. Other topics included linking items to agendas, the status of a credit card policy, and the website address.

The meeting addressed the district's financial status, including balances in the LGIP accounts, and approved claims. Discussions were held regarding a potential agreement with the Blaine County Ambulance District to designate the Greenhorn Fire Station as an Air Ambulance Landing Zone. Updates were provided by the Fire District and Sun Valley Fire Department Chiefs, covering topics such as staffing at Greenhorn Station, responses to significant calls, and training initiatives. The possibility of relocating the training facility to mid-valley and land expansion at Griffin Butte for affordable housing were also discussed. The meeting further covered the LOT tax in Sun Valley, the Ambulance District's levy plans, and the potential renaming of Greenhorn Station to the Greenhorn Emergency Response Center. The meeting schedule for the upcoming year was also addressed.