Residents concerned about the future of the Higgins Fire District, in light of recent cutbacks, can now apply to be on a newly-created committee. Public Information Officer Pete Marchinek says the application process has just begun for a seat on the newly-created Strategic Planning Committee….

click to listen to Pete Marchinek

Marchinek says the committee will be comprised of two board members, three members of the public, preferably from each District zone, and various staff members. The District had to close one of its three stations last year, when property owners rejected Measure V, a large assessment increase…

click to listen to Pete Marchinek

The closure of the Dog Bar station resulted in the layoffs of six firefighters. In January, the district managed to find a way to restore the original staffing at one of its two remaining stations. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, show proof of residency, and attend monthly meetings on the 4th Thursday of of the month. The deadline is April 18th. The first meeting is April 27th. Marchinek says the committee will not have an expiration, and will make recommendations to the Board of Directors later this year.