Alfalfa Fire District slashes services amid leadership and staffing shortage

(UPDATE: Meeting took place where board decided on reduced service)

ALFALFA, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Alfalfa Fire District Board of Directors voted today to temporarily reduce emergency services for residents and property owners.

Chief resignation, staffing shortage drive decision

This decision comes as the district searches for a new fire chief following the resignation of former Chief Chad LaValle earlier this month and a current shortage of volunteer firefighters.

Reduced response, increased reliance on partners

The temporary reduction means emergency response capabilities will be substantially reduced, leading to delayed service times. This may require partner departments, such as Bend Fire and Rescue, to respond in place of Alfalfa Fire District crews.

Wildfire season heightens concern

The staffing challenges have created a significant hole in the department, leaving only a fraction of its previous firefighter strength. This situation places additional strain on residents during wildfire season and raises concerns regarding insurance implications.

Board explains cause, recruitment efforts

Mark Laucks, an Alfalfa Fire District Board Member, stated that the reduction in services is due to the departure of the district's fire chief and the current lack of volunteer firefighters. The district is actively seeking to recruit a new chief and additional volunteers.

Laucks clarified the board's position, saying, “The Fire District Board of Directors wishes to advise residents and property owners of significant temporary reductions in emergency services resulting from the heart of the district's fire chief and the current shortage of volunteer firefighters. The district is actively recruiting a new chief. However, until qualified personnel are hired and additional volunteers are recruited, emergency response capabilities will be substantially reduced.”

Board outlines chief qualifications

The board discussed the open chief position at today's meeting, outlining specific qualifications. Laucks detailed the requirements, stating the role needs a “minimum of five years of progressively responsible fire service experience, supervisory and command level experience, Firefighter II certification, Fire Officer II certification, Engine Boss certification, ICS 100, 200, 300 and 400, and current EMT certification or ability to obtain.”

District open to training qualified candidate

While acknowledging the high qualifications for the position, the board seeks a candidate willing to work toward achieving all necessary certifications. Former Chief LaValle took a year to meet the desired qualifications when he assumed the role, and the department intends to follow a similar approach with the next chief.

Residents want accountability, community focus

Residents, who declined to be identified, expressed their hopes for the new chief. They desire a leader who is inclusive, accountable, understands the community's constraints—such as a lack of hydrants—and values community input. They also want a chief who upholds a high standard of service.

Early interest in chief position

The Alfalfa Fire District Board has already received interest in the open chief position and will continue its search.