Elk Creek Fire Department merges with Inner Canyon and North Fork for enhanced services

The Jefferson County Board of Commissioners is moving forward with a significant plan to unify the Elk Creek, Inner Canyon, and North Fork Fire Departments, a decision that has been in discussion since the 1990s. This merger aims to enhance emergency services across a vast area of nearly 400 square miles, particularly along the busy 285 Corridor, which is prone to wildfire risks.

During the meeting on April 8, 2025, Chief Roger Sherlo highlighted the extensive efforts that led to this decision, including a feasibility study conducted in 2020 that recommended an inclusion-exclusion method for unifying the districts. This approach addresses community concerns while promising a half-mill tax reduction for Elk Creek residents in 2026, rather than an increase.

Currently, Elk Creek operates with 14 volunteer and 26 professional firefighters, alongside shared positions with Conifer Fire Department. The proposed unification will bolster resources, increasing the number of volunteers to approximately 35-40 and professional firefighters to 30-35. The plan includes opening a new station and ensuring 24/7 coverage, significantly improving service delivery.

The board received strong support from both the public and internal staff, with 13 out of 15 board members backing the merger. Public testimony during a previous hearing indicated a clear preference for the unification, emphasizing the need for improved emergency response capabilities in light of the area's unique challenges.

As the commissioners deliberate on the resolution for exclusion, they are urged to consider the overwhelming evidence and community support for this strategic consolidation, which promises to create a more efficient and effective emergency service framework for Jefferson County.