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Fire chief warns of levy request as district reports rising call volume
Summary
Chief Nicholl reported the fire district runs roughly 1,700–1,970 calls per year (10-year average), that EMS calls make up most responses, and that the district will likely seek a renewed five‑year local option levy with a possible rate increase before 2027.
Chief Nicholl, representing the local fire district, told the Junction City Council on Dec. 9 that the district is a combination of career and volunteer staff, currently employing seven career personnel and about 32 volunteers. “We operate solely from property taxes,” he said, describing coverage for a roughly 67‑square‑mile district that includes Junction City.
Nicholl said the department averages about 1,970 calls per year over the past decade and that emergency medical service calls account for about 80% of responses. He noted the department has been handling more double and occasional triple calls — events that strain volunteer capacity — and described staffing patterns (paid staff 7 a.m.–8 p.m.; volunteers overnight).
On funding, Nicholl said the district has operated under a 60¢ levy since 2012 but will likely ask voters to renew and increase the five‑year local option levy at the end of the 2026–27 cycle. “We’ve managed to operate on a 60¢ levy since 2012,” he said, and added that another increase (he mentioned 30¢ as a possibility in later remarks) could be needed to keep pace with costs.
Councilors asked about establishing transport capability (ambulance service) and were told it would be complex, requiring at least two licensed ambulances, a roster of paramedics, housing and other logistics. Nicholl offered to return with a detailed plan if the council wished to pursue that option.
The chief closed with a public safety reminder about space heaters after describing a recent apartment rescue and the department’s cooperative response with police officers on scene. The council did not take formal action on the report; Nicholl said he planned to return with more information before any levy measure was placed before voters.
