Citizens speak out against Orono Fire - top concerns are safety, response times, training, temp fire garage as fire house?

From @FigureoutFire: On March 11, 2024, Orono Citizen, Kelly P. addressed the Orono City Council about her concerns related to the future of fire service for the City of Orono. She specifically spoke about concerns regarding the July 1, 2024 change in service for the Navarre area requested by the City of Orono.

For over 20 years the Long Lake Fire Department has effectively served Navarre, but In just 16 weeks the untested and unestablished, Orono Fire Department will respond to emergency calls the area.

Some of her concerns include:

1. The undetermined station location with a costly buildout for a temporary garage could only meet minimum safety requirements for firefighters.

2. The “Plan C” location suggested at the meeting is further from the call area which will likely increase response times.

3. The inadequately equipped and insufficiently staffed department has not demonstrated a readiness plan to the community or the state.

4. The decisions being made are destroying previously good relationships with a neighboring cities that Orono relies on for mutual aid.

5. A concern for public safety due to the lack of overall preparedness by an unestablished department that is not yet recognized by the State of Minnesota.

Kelly asked the Orono City Council to set their egos aside, rethink these terrible plans, do the right thing for public safety and pursue a collaborative option with the Long Lake Fire Department. She also encouraged citizens to pay attention to this important issue, speak up and ask questions of your Councilmembers.

Residents and neighbors of Orono can express their concerns at the next Orono City Council meeting on Monday, April 8th or April 22nd at 6 pm or you can email Orono Council members at:

dwalsh2@ci.orono.mn.us

rcrosby@oronomn.gov

mjohnson@oronomn.gov

mveach@oronomn.gov

abenson@oronomn.gov