PINE VALLEY FIRE DISTRICT IS NOW HISTORY

By Miriam Raftery

August 8, 2017 (Pine Valley) – Effective today, the Pine Valley Fire Protection District has dissolved and has joined the San Diego County Fire Authority (SDCFA).  The Pine Valley district has served this mountain community and surrounding areas for over 70 years.

“We are proud to have represented you and leave you with a safer, brighter future,” a letter from Bob Uribe, District Chief, Pine Valley Protection District and the Board of Directors published in Valley Views states.

A farewell meeting was held last night with a change-of-command ceremony.

The SDCFA will maintain current staffing for Pine Valley and surrounding response areas and the county is expected to maintain its contract with Cal Fire firefighters, who have served in the local firehouse for many years now. 

Under the new agreements, the district and county have moved forward with arrival of a new fire engine and water tender, as well as a soon-to-arrive rescue truck and equipment aimed at improving services, the Chief’s letter states.

Future fire prevention services will be shared by the SDCFA and Cal Fire.  Inspections and some building services will be available at the San Diego County offices on Overland Avenue in Kearny Mesa.

The San Diego Local Agency Formation Commission has recorded dissolution of the Pine Valley Fire Protection District, finalizing the transition. 

Some Pine Valley board members will serve on the San Diego County Advisory Board, which has members from around the county, to “be your future voice in maintaining the services you deserve,” Chief Uribe concluded, adding this message to district residents: “The Pine Valley Fire Board wishes to thank all of you for your support in the process and your caring support of our firefighters and volunteers.”

Dissolution of the Pine Valley District leaves the Julian-Cuyamaca Fire Protection District as the only remaining rural fire district that has not yet joined the County Fire Authority.