On behalf of Lane Fire Authority, thank you to everyone who participated in the Nov. 4 election and engaged in the conversation about local fire and emergency services. While voters did not approve the local option levy, we appreciate the dialogue and remain committed to transparency, accountability and careful management of public resources as we move forward.

The levy would have maintained current service levels across our 282-square-mile service area, where call volumes continue to rise. Because the measure did not pass, Lane Fire Authority must now identify cuts needed to align operations with available funding.

Our board of directors will be conducting their regularly scheduled meeting at 1 p.m. Nov. 18 at Veneta Station 101, 88050 Territorial Highway, Veneta, where we will begin to discuss next steps. As always, the public is invited to attend. These conversations will focus on where and how to reduce costs while continuing to provide essential emergency response.

We encourage community members to stay informed — visit lanefire.org/localoptionlevy or attend a board meeting to learn more.

Dale Borland
Fire Chief, Lane Fire Authority
Veneta