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The Elmer City fire department, also known as Okanogan County Fire District #2, is interested in getting a new building built behind their old one, and in finding more volunteers.

Public Works Director Jimmer Tillman told the town council Feb. 11 that the fire department, for which he has been a volunteer for about 30 years, was interested in a new storage facility for its trucks. He said the city would look into grant options for such a thing, something for which he understands there to be multiple opportunities.

Tillman explained that the current facility can only fit four of the department’s seven trucks, and that the department may be getting a couple more trucks in the coming months.

A new building, which could possibly be built behind the current one on town-owned land, would house the trucks, while the current building would continue to be a meeting space with restrooms for department use, Tillman explained.

The fire district covers an area that runs from east Coulee Dam to Belvedere and up Manilla Creek to the Green’s Ranch area, Tillman told the council.

Mayor Jesse Tillman said he has heard from multiple people that the department “is on every call,” and that he supports them getting a new facility. “You guys have done a great job,” he said.

Jimmer Tillman said the department has about seven active volunteer firefighters, although there are about a dozen on the roster. He said they are “always looking for volunteers.” 

Councilmember Michael Humiston asked for more information and expressed an interest in volunteering.

Others interested in volunteering for the department could contact city hall at (509) 633-2872 for more information.