Madera County approves $14M funding agreement for new Riverstone Fire Station

The Madera County Board of Supervisors convened on May 13, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, with a primary focus on a funding agreement for the construction of a new fire station in the Riverstone development area.

The meeting began with a presentation by Matt Treiber from the Development Services Department, who outlined the proposed funding agreement with Grove Land Development Corporation. This agreement will facilitate the construction of the Riverstone Fire Station, which has already received necessary approvals from the building department. Treiber emphasized that the project will be financed through impact fees collected primarily from the Riverstone development, with approximately $4 million currently on deposit and an anticipated annual collection of $1.5 million as the area continues to develop.

Supervisor McCauley expressed support for the project, highlighting the benefits it will bring to emergency response capabilities in Eastern Madera County. He noted that the new station will enhance service not only for Riverstone residents but also for surrounding communities, thereby improving overall safety and response times.

Further details about the fire station were provided, indicating that it will be the largest in the county, featuring a three-bay apparatus and community meeting spaces. The station's location, approximately 1,000 feet south of Avenue 12, is strategically chosen to serve a wide radius, including the Ranchos and Rolling Hills areas.

The board discussed the financial implications of the project, with assurances that the costs will be covered by the development itself, thereby not impacting the county's general fund. Supervisor Rogers reiterated the importance of ensuring that new developments like Riverstone contribute to their own infrastructure needs, including fire services.

Public comments were invited, with one resident praising the board's efforts and the funding mechanisms that have made the project possible. Concerns were raised about future fire station needs in other areas of the county, emphasizing the importance of planning for sustainable funding solutions.

The board unanimously approved the funding agreement, with a vote of 5-0, allowing the project to move forward. The anticipated timeline for the fire station's completion includes a ribbon-cutting ceremony by the end of 2026, following the bonding process and construction phases.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to enhancing public safety through strategic development and infrastructure investment, with the Riverstone Fire Station serving as a significant step forward in meeting the needs of a growing community.