Douglas County Fire District 2 Examining Future, Including Possible Merger

Douglas County Fire District 2 Commissioners are discussing the future of their agency after firing former chief Dave Baker late last year.

Chelan County Fire District 1 Chief Brian Brett says there are multiple paths that could involve him becoming the head of both agencies either temporarily or permanently.

"We might look at becoming a regional fire authority, we might just look at consolidating some other types of services. If none of it makes financial or operational sense, we won't do any of it. It does look like we will find some form of efficiences in terms of coverage and response coverage, administrative duties, etc."

He could also lead Douglas 2 while a new chief is found.

Brett says if there is a desire to join forces officially, there will be process that would include a public vote that would have to happen.

"The Commissioners from both sides of the river main task is to protect the assets of the respective districts and provide for effective and safe response. If it meets those two parameters, we would form a citizens advisory group."

It would end up on a ballot with the voters deciding on any merge.

So, Brett says he could end up the temporary chief of Douglas 2, or even the permanent chief, or they could look at some level of combined agreement.