Creating Umatilla County Fire District #1 is a change.

If you live in Hermiston, Stanfield or the surrounding area, the biggest benefit you will see is full time manning of the Diagonal rural station in Hermiston, where currently it is minimal. That in itself will make response times quicker.

At this time, the risk of missed calls grows every few months. Combining these two entities will stop this from happening. When the consolidation is passed, in both communities staffing will change.

And the cost increase for the increase of protection is minimal. Stanfield will see slight decreases to the tax rate. On the other hand, Hermiston rural will increase roughly 55 cents per $1,000, or $55 a year for a $100,000 home. Consider that in comparison to risking the reality of missing a run.

I hope you take the time to review and discuss this option with your family and friends. Also, consider the changes in volunteer liability, because of the training costs. Remember, you will be selecting five new fire board members. That is the ultimate way to become involved in decisions for the future.

Remember to cast your vote in May.

John Perkins

Hermiston