Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Emergency Services Funding topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
County approves $22,000 from PILT for West Cutney fire engine after debate over funding source
Summary
The board approved a $22,000 payment from PILT to help a remote volunteer district (West Cutney Fire Protection) purchase a type‑1 structure engine; the motion originated as a pledge to pay half the cost and was amended to pay the full amount. Commissioners discussed the district’s donation‑based funding model and past DNR support.
Commissioners approved a request from West Cutney Fire Protection to help purchase a type‑1 structure engine. Staff advised that Title III funds were not an eligible source because the applicant is a private, donation‑based 501(c)(3); the board discussed other funding sources and the possibility of using PILT.
One commissioner moved to fund half of the engine cost (about $11,000 if the engine cost $22,000), then amended the motion to fund the full $22,000 out of PILT. The amended motion was seconded and approved; at least one commissioner recorded a dissent during the roll call. Participants discussed the district’s reliance on donations and fundraisers (pie sales, pancake breakfasts) and noted the difficulty of obtaining type‑1 structural engines through state surplus or DNRC programs.
Why it matters: The board committed county PILT funds to support a volunteer district in a remote area, a decision commissioners framed as necessary because the district covers isolated terrain and responds to structure and wildfire incidents. The decision reflects county choices about supporting volunteer emergency services where other funding sources are limited.
Next steps: County finance staff will process the $22,000 payment from PILT to the West Cutney Fire Protection; no additional reporting requirements were specified in the meeting record.
