LaVita Fire Protection District seeks funding to enhance wildfire mitigation efforts

The Custer County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting on December 11, 2024, focused on critical discussions surrounding fire mitigation efforts and grant funding. The meeting highlighted the importance of local contractors in fire prevention initiatives and the need for effective resource allocation to protect homes from wildfires.

During the meeting, a participant emphasized the federal requirement for fair bidding practices, stating that local contractors should not be favored at higher rates. The discussion included insights from a local contractor involved in fire mitigation in neighboring counties, who noted that funding for such projects often comes from grants. The contractor stressed the importance of creating demand for fire mitigation services, particularly in protecting homes within the most vulnerable zones, which extend from 0 to 100 feet from structures.

The conversation also touched on the necessity of establishing fuel breaks along evacuation routes to enhance safety during emergencies. Participants expressed a desire for the BOCC to support program design efforts and collaborate with various stakeholders, including state forest services and local coalitions focused on wildfire prevention.

A significant point raised was the ongoing insurance affordability crisis and the impending adoption of new building codes that will require enforcement within a year. The meeting underscored the financial benefits of investing in mitigation, with a cited statistic from FEMA indicating that every dollar spent on mitigation could save six dollars in recovery costs.

As the meeting progressed, a motion was made to support a grant application related to these fire mitigation efforts. Questions arose regarding the financial aspects of the grant, including matching funds and salary allocations for project personnel. The discussion revealed some discrepancies in the budget calculations, prompting further clarification on how the funds would be utilized, particularly concerning equipment purchases.

In conclusion, the BOCC meeting highlighted the urgent need for effective fire mitigation strategies and the importance of securing funding to support these initiatives. The discussions set the stage for future actions aimed at enhancing community safety and resilience against wildfires in Custer County.