Star Fire District in disarray
-
Star Fire District's commissioners resign putting future of district in limbo. Video by IdahoOnYourSide.com
video
The Star Fire District is without leadership tonight after it's entire board of commissioners resigns over significant cost overruns.
The result of all this could be an end to a beneficial agreement with the Eagle Fire district.
An agreement that firefighters say was providing better coverage and training and could go a long way to reducing costs.
The deficit of as much as one million dollars for the Star Fire District was hard for some to take.
"I think everybody's frustrated with the whole situation and how finances are handled and to hear this in a small area like this with major debt, makes you wonder why and what can be done." says Star resident Barbara Chambers.
Star firefighters say a good start would be to make a permanent arrangement with Eagle Fire.
For 9 months they've been testing an arrangement called a joint powers agreement. It allows them to train with eagle fire and work together to handle emergencies in both cities.
The mayor, Nate Mitchell, sees the benefits.
"I think a joint powers agreement with Eagle district could be something that accomplishes excellent fire protection services and allows for star people to have local elected representation." says Mitchell
It could also reduce redundancies and create savings to counter the districts debt.
"It'd be good idea especially if it's not going to cost any more if we've already been doing it and it's working great why not?" Says Star resident Stacy Saunders.
But before the commissioners resigned they ended the joint powers agreement, instead asking the City of Star to take them over.
The mayor says he knows the firefighters have been happier working with Eagle.
"I think happy firefighters with good resources is a good deal for star and there are many ways that can be accomplished." says Mitchell.
Whatever happens next will have to wait until the governor selects the new commissioners.
The joint powers agreement with Eagle will continue for another six months with no change of services.
The Star mayor says he does not believe there was any intentional wrongdoing on the part of the commissioners.
This site uses Facebook comments to make it easier for you to contribute. If you see a comment you would like to flag for spam or abuse, click the "x" in the upper right of it. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use.