The Chief's Update is a regular article by Chief Mike Piper in the Arvada Report, a bi-monthly newsletter published by the City of Arvada that's distributed to homes and businesses. View the Arvada Report webpage to read current and previous editions of the Chief's Update.
Fire department consolidation discussions advance
By Fire Chief Mike Piper
In my last Arvada Report article, I mentioned that elected officials from Arvada Fire and Fairmount Fire have engaged in initial discussions about a possible consolidation. Although talks remain ongoing, we have a few updates to report.
Fairmount is an unincorporated area located between the cities of Arvada and Golden. Fire protection and emergency medical services in Fairmount are ultimately governed by a board of directors comprised of five elected officials, as is the case within the Arvada Fire Protection District.
The Board of Directors from both Fairmount Fire and Arvada Fire emerged from their February board meetings indicating a desire to enter an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) to work more closely together while the districts continue researching and contemplating the possibility of a consolidation.
Both boards agreed that such a consolidation could be in the best interests of the health, safety, and public welfare of their respective citizens. Firefighters from both organizations are also advocating a consolidation, stating that such an arrangement would improve public safety in both districts, while also representing the best interests of firefighter health and safety.
A consolidation of the fire districts would ultimately be a decision for Fairmount’s citizens to make. The earliest such an election would likely take place is not until November of 2024, so there is plenty of time for citizens in both districts to ask questions or express concerns they may have.
Should you have any questions or concerns regarding a possible consolidation of the districts, please contact me at mike.piper@arvadafireco.gov or 303-228-3602 and I will be happy to discuss them with you.