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Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber endorses May 20 firefighters bond, cites aging stations and service demand
Summary
Linda Coppes, president and CEO of the Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber, urged support for a firefighters bond on the May 20 ballot, saying the fire department is stretched and needs upgraded stations, equipment and training to serve a growing city.
Linda Coppes, president and CEO of the Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber, spoke at the May 6 council meeting to express the Chamber’s support for the firefighters bond scheduled for the May 20 ballot.
Coppes told the council the Chamber board and nearly 1,000 member businesses back the measure, saying the fire department is stretched thin, operates from aging and undersized facilities and uses outdated equipment. “This bond isn't just about funding. It's about giving our firefighters the tools that they need to serve safely, efficiently, and effectively,” Coppes said.
She described the proposed bond as an investment in public safety that also protects businesses and economic vitality and urged residents to learn more and vote in favor of the initiative on May 20.
What council said: The mayor and council acknowledged the public comment; no staff presentation or detailed bond language was included in the May 6 council packet. Coppes urged turnout and education rather than asking the council for a specific ordinance or city contribution at the meeting.
Why it matters: A successful bond would authorize local capital spending or facility improvement for the fire department; the transcript does not include the bond’s dollar amount, specific projects or a city financial commitment.
Next steps: Voters decide the measure on May 20. Chamber members were encouraged to learn more about the initiative prior to the election.
