Submitted by the League of Women Voters Observer Corps, a nonpartisan organization, encourages informed participation in government. The Observer Corps attends and takes notes at government meetings to expand public understanding of public policy and decisions. The notes do not necessarily reflect the views of the League or its members.

SJI Fire District regular commissioner meeting of Feb. 11

The appointment of the Board chair and vice chair will take place at the March 11 meeting, which will start at 2:30 p.m. to allow a study session on commissioner roles.

The commissioners asked the chief not to renew the current Interlocal Agreement with San Juan Island Emergency Medical Services, which expires on March 1 and to negotiate a new agreement with a more balanced relationship.

Chief Monin is working with the Port to find a future public safety and firefighter training site. One site in discussion is on Cattle Point Road near Golf Course Road. A training site on the island could improve local insurance ratings, prevent the district from being short-handed when personnel are sent off-island for training and possibly allow fire districts on other islands to train in-county.

Stuart Island West is discussing lease terms with the school district for placing a fire station on School District 149 property. Repair of the storm damage to Station 35’s roof and other improvements are underway. The Hannah Heights Homeowners Association has found a site other than Station 33 for their six-month trial of a process to eliminate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, from their water.

The district is seeking an interlocal agreement with San Juan County Coroner’s Office. An engine bumped into a pillar at headquarters; both will need repair. Chief Monin submitted a 12-point draft outline to start the process of developing a new strategic plan and the commissioners discussed the need for community involvement.