The City of Big Bear Lake is taking significant steps to enhance its fire department services, as discussed in the recent Fire Authority meeting on July 9, 2025. A key proposal involves the addition of emergency response resources, including an ambulance, a paramedic squad, and additional firefighters, with an estimated total cost of approximately $5.4 million.

To fund these enhancements, the Fire Authority is considering a new tax structure that would impose a fee of $7.50 per square foot on residential properties, along with similar rates for hotels and apartments. This tax is aimed at generating necessary revenue to support the increased staffing and equipment needs as the community continues to grow.

During the meeting, various scenarios were presented to outline the financial implications of these changes. For instance, the first scenario suggests adding a non-safety ambulance and three top-step firefighters, which would cost around $1.3 million annually. The proposed tax for single-family homes over 1,000 square feet would be approximately 6 cents per square foot, translating to an annual increase of $6 for a 1,100 square foot home, and up to $187 for larger homes.

The discussions also highlighted the importance of a Community Facilities District (CFD) to ensure that new developments contribute fairly to the costs associated with fire suppression services. This approach aims to alleviate the financial burden on current residents while accommodating the expected growth in the area.

The Fire Authority plans to revisit these proposals and refine the tax rates based on the size of new structures, ensuring that larger buildings, which pose a greater risk, contribute more significantly to fire service funding. The board is expected to continue exploring these options in future meetings, emphasizing the need for a sustainable funding model as Big Bear Lake develops.