Skamania County Fire Protection District 4

Key discussions included an update on the local respiratory illness status showing ARI is up, while flu, RSV, and COVID-19 levels remained stable. The energy report noted typical usage but highlighted a demand charge at Station 4-1. Progress on the Western Skamania County Public Service Complex project was reviewed, with the site survey completed and approved, and the bid preparation set as the next step. Updates were given regarding the expected timing of the WA State Ratings Bureau tender credit test and the mechanism for firefighter pension credits. The Board reviewed and approved amendments to the SCEMS interlocal agreement. Additionally, Commissioner Young directed the Chief to schedule public meeting laws training for the Board and secretary. Vouchers and payroll totaling $21,987.08 and $4,117.22, respectively, were approved.

The meeting included the re-election of Commissioner Young as Board Chairman and Rhonda Cartan as District Secretary. An update on respiratory illnesses indicated increases in Flu, COVID-19, and ARI, prompting the decision for EMTs to wear protective masks on calls. The Commission discussed the Western Skamania County Public Service Complex project, accepting a proposal for an archeological search on the property. They also reviewed correspondence from the WA State Ratings Bureau regarding potential rating improvements. The Commission interviewed three candidates for Commissioner position #2, concluding the process after a brief executive session, and appointed Robert Victorino to the position. Financial actions included approving vouchers totaling $11,936.45 and payroll totaling $4,023.78. Upcoming events, Awards Night and a Raffle with Taco Lunch, were announced.

Key discussions during the meeting included a respiratory illness update showing a slight increase in flu cases, an energy report confirming usage at both stations is within normal ranges, and updates on the Western Skamania County Public Service Complex project, including the creation of a timeline spreadsheet to manage grant procurement paperwork, with plans to put the bid out by March 1st. The district maintained its WA State Ratings Bureau rating of 6 due to having two fire stations. The State Auditor's letter confirmed a positive outcome for the 3-year audit. Following Commissioner Gogolski's resignation, the Commission decided to advertise the vacant position, interview candidates in January, and agreed that Commissioners will now receive their current wage ($90 per meeting) for all Fire Department meetings, including workshops and special meetings. Public comments addressed the impact of the WSRB rating on local insurance premiums and acknowledged the departing Commissioner.

The meeting included updates on respiratory illnesses and energy usage at the stations. The Emergency Response Plan for Naked Falls Hipcamp was discussed, noting deficiencies and errors. Updates were provided on the Western Skamania County Public Service Complex grant application process. The WA State Ratings Bureau is working on the district's rating. The 2026 Budget was approved, and a motion was passed to adopt resolution 2025-02. A motion was also passed to approve the Levy Certification. The meeting time will be moved to 6pm every month.

The meeting included discussions and updates on respiratory illnesses, energy usage at Station 2, and the Naked Falls Hipcamp. The Fire Marshall will provide the Emergency Response Plan next week. Progress on the Western Skamania County Public Service Complex was discussed, with plans to bid in the first quarter of 2026. The WA State Ratings Bureau, HUB insurance costs, and the State Audit were reviewed. The board approved placing unclaimed warrant monies back into the BARs code and approved the expenditure for new tires for Tender 4-1. The proposed 2026 budget was distributed and discussed. An executive session was held, and public comments were heard regarding the Conditional Use Permit at Naked Falls Hipcamp. Vouchers and payroll were approved.