Jefferson County Fire & EMS thanks lawmakers for $1.9 million to complete station expansion, remodel
Barney Lerten
MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) — Jefferson County Fire & EMS has been awarded $1.9 million from the Oregon Legislature to assist with the ongoing expansion and remodel of its existing fire station.
“This critical investment will help bring the project to completion,” the agency said Wednesday in a news release that continues below:
The funding will allow the district to upgrade its nearly 40-year-old facility to meet current building codes and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards. It will also provide modern living quarters designed to accommodate a diverse workforce, ensuring a safe and functional space for its personnel to work.
Importantly, the state funding enables the department to redirect a portion of its voter-approved bond—passed in May 2024—toward other essential fire and EMS equipment needs. These resources will strengthen emergency response capabilities and support the district’s mission to serve the community.
Fire Chief Jeff Blake expressed his appreciation to those who made the funding possible, stating:
“We are an organization with many needs,” Blake said. “I want to personally thank Representatives Greg Smith, Vikki Breese-Iverson, and Senator Mike McLane for their strong support in this process. Without their help, this would have been very difficult to accomplish.”
Jefferson County Fire & EMS is grateful for the continued support from the legislature and community as it works to build a safer and more resilient organization.