WOODBURN, Ore. — The Woodburn Fire District Board of Directors has begun discussions about long-term funding options needed to maintain current emergency response staffing and services. Community members are invited to attend the Board’s next meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 18, at 7 p.m. at Station 21 (1776 Newberg Hwy, Woodburn) to learn more and share feedback.

The Fire District has experienced significant growth in emergency incidents, with overall call volume increasing by approximately 80 percent since 2015 and overlapping incidents occurring regularly.

To address this demand, the District secured a temporary federal grant to hire eight additional firefighters. This allowed the District to staff two fire stations at the same time and operate a second emergency response unit, reducing response times to eight minutes or less.

That temporary grant is scheduled to expire, and another grant is not available. Without additional funding, the District would be unable to retain these eight firefighter positions and maintain current staffing levels.

“This is an important conversation about the level of service our community expects and how to sustainably fund it,” said Fire Chief Jim Walker. “We want residents to be informed and engaged as the Board evaluates possible next steps.”

The Board will consider potential funding options and next steps at the Feb. 18 meeting. Residents are encouraged to attend and share feedback as the discussion continues.