Concow Residents Urge Butte County to Restore Engine at Fire Station 38

The Butte County Board of Supervisors meeting on August 26, 2025, focused on critical community safety issues, particularly the urgent need for fire services in the Concow Basin. Residents voiced strong support for the reinstatement of an engine at Fire Station 38, which has been without equipment since the removal of its engine to Fire Station 37 during renovations.

Dot Morris, a community representative, highlighted the significant risks associated with the current lack of fire response capabilities, noting that approximately 50% of volunteer call-outs occur in the Concow area. Morris emphasized that the steep and challenging terrain of Concow Road complicates access to Fire Station 37, potentially delaying emergency response times by 20 to 30 minutes, which could be critical in emergencies.

Wayne Souza, a resident and property owner in the area, echoed these concerns, stating that the presence of Fire Station 38 is essential for community development and safety. He also raised issues regarding road access, mentioning that recent storms have washed out alternative escape routes, further underscoring the need for reliable fire services.

In response to public comments, Board members acknowledged the importance of the issue and expressed a desire to consult with the fire chief before making any decisions. Supervisor Teeter indicated a need for further discussion regarding the potential placement of a surplus engine at Fire Station 38, while other supervisors expressed interest in being included in these discussions to ensure community concerns are addressed.

The meeting also included the appointment of members to the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Advisory Committee, with the board unanimously approving the reappointment of Mark Gordon and the appointment of Emily Upton, both of whom bring valuable experience to the committee.

The discussions highlighted the community's commitment to enhancing fire safety and emergency response capabilities, with the board planning to revisit the fire station issue in future meetings.