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North County RFA reports steady call volume, planned promotions and retirements
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Summary
North County Regional Fire Authority reported call volume through March at 2,420 calls with an annual projection near 10,010; the RFA announced two battalion chief retirements effective May 14, subsequent promotions and ongoing recruitment for entry‑level positions and a facilities technician.
Dave Kasky presented the North County Regional Fire Authority quarterly report in a revised format showing call volumes, call types and a geographic heat map. He reported 2,420 calls through March and said the RFA is on track for roughly 10,010 calls this year, noting that EMS calls represent about 75–80% of total responses.
Kasky described the distribution of calls across the RFA’s 120 square miles with highest volumes in Downtown Arlington, Smoky Point and Downtown Stanwood. He noted medical facilities and senior living centers drive EMS transports and mutual‑aid hours are tracked because transports increase out‑of‑service time.
The RFA expects two battalion chiefs (Jason Nyblood and Phil Knepper) to retire on May 14; the retirements will prompt two captain promotions (Sean Rice and Kirk Norman) and two firefighter vacancies that are already filled by recruits in the county academy timed to graduate on May 14. Kasky said the assistant chief of operations position was intentionally left vacant and that a new assistant chief (Rick Jesus) accepted an offer and will join the team; Kasky said he will introduce him at a future meeting.
Kasky also noted apparatus procurement cycles (about 1.5 EMS vehicles per year; two fire engines on multi‑year order) and recruitment for a facilities technician. Crews are preparing for the wildland season and summer events. He said an annual report will be available in the coming weeks.
