La Pine Rural Fire Protection District

The meeting included the introduction of new reserve students and the Fire Marshal. Financial discussions covered revenue, expenses, and potential impacts from tax repayments and federal funding changes. The Student Reserve Part-Time Pilot Program was noted as successful. Project updates included the phone system at Station 102, safety hazards in apparatus bays, and workstation upgrades. Funding was secured for additional AEDs, and a new set of rescue tools is expected. The District received a Class 03 rating from the Public Protection Classification survey. Discussions were held regarding the Visions and Values statement and board policies, including background checks for personnel. Engine and Facility upgrades were discussed, with a focus on long-term infrastructure needs and funding strategies.

The meeting included a review of financials, noting that tax revenues are slightly below last year's pace, though overall expenses align with the budget. Unbudgeted revenue was received from a SAIF dividend and a capital grant refund, necessitating budget appropriation adjustments. Key actions included the approval of the December 2025 monthly expenses, which totaled $623,746.24, with minor abstentions noted. Management reports detailed the completion and submission of the annual audit, which identified two repeat significant deficiencies related to financial reporting and software controls, with a corrective action plan forthcoming. Operations reported 245 alarm responses in December. Old Business saw the unanimous approval of the Mission, Vision, Values, and Goals document, Board Policy 100.17, and the Battalion Chief Job Description. New Business involved the approval of the State of Oregon Plan of Action for the audit letter and the adoption of the FY 2026 Budget Calendar. The Board also directed staff to move ahead with the Kleinberg Proposal for data mining and training, and to evaluate a request for a surplus medic unit.

The meeting addressed financial matters, including potential tax revenue repayments to Deschutes County, updates on the GEMT FFS program, and the impact of balanced billing legislation. Discussions covered the OSFM capacity grant and the need for strategic planning to mitigate funding loss. The board reviewed monthly expenses and approved payments. Updates were provided on seasonal notes, bank reconciliations, audit preparation, and software transition planning. Current projects, such as the Station 102 phone system and bay safety hazards, were discussed, along with technology upgrades and grant equipment news. Operational activities, including September alarm responses, were reviewed. The board discussed vision and values statements, emergency vehicle training, medic replacement planning, recording protocols, holiday planning, and the Deschutes County Wildland Grant.

The board reviewed financial reports, including revenue and expense overviews and the approval of monthly payments. The Chief's report covered technical transitions for reporting systems, updates on the audit report and budget process, and status reports on various capital and facility maintenance projects, including station repairs and hiring efforts. The board addressed old business regarding budget and capital project planning. New business included the approval of surplus property, updates to medical service rates, the creation of a new bank account, and the review of CPA engagement and audit documentation.

The meeting commenced with a recognition ceremony honoring District members and Support Services personnel for their military service and dedicated years of service, including the retirement of Ted and Karen Sommers. Key agenda items included financial reviews for October 2025, noting that tax revenues had not yet arrived but EMS revenues were steady, and certain expenses like Overtime and Breakdowns/Repairs required monitoring. The Board approved monthly expenses paid totaling $505,012.41, with some abstentions noted. Updates were provided on pending capital projects, including the Electrical Drops Project which was delayed due to personnel illness, and preparations for the upcoming annual audit onsite visit. In Old Business, the Mission Statement and Vision Statement were accepted. Under New Business, discussions occurred regarding the Capital Replacement Schedule and a proposal to move Captains into Battalion Chief roles starting January 2026. The meeting concluded with the Board adjourning to Executive Session.