President Trump’s budget proposal contains major cuts to many federal grant programs. 

Assistance to Firefighter Grants:

Fortunately for fire districts/departments, the “Assistance to Firefighter Grant” (AFG) programs are safe for now.  This is because they fall under the umbrella of the Department of Homeland Security, one of three federal departments (along with Veteran’s Affairs and Defense) that, at this time, are escaping President Trump’s proposed budget cuts.

Proposed Cuts to Other Federal Grant Programs:

USDA Rural Development grant programs which have previously provided some equipment funding for fire districts/departments, are also slated for major cuts to funding...

For the past decade, voter resistance to fire department bond initiatives has increased. As populations grow and demand for resources increases, how can a fire department continue to serve the public on an ever-shrinking budget? EF Recovery pioneered the process of collecting non-tax based funds for first responders. 

Nominations need to be submitted to the WFC office by Friday, April 28th of this year, 2017.

• Nominee can be nominated by any WFC member, belonging to any WFC Section – please include: nominees name, position title, years of service;
• The nominee must be a current member of the WFAS;
• Nomination should list the nominee’s administrative accomplishments and contributions during the previous year as well as their leadership abilities, demonstration of professional performance and personal character.  A short story should be submitted to enhance the nominee’s accomplishments.

It is with heavy hearts we share that Fire District 8 Volunteer Firefighter Doug Archer passed away unexpectedly in his sleep earlier this week. A very active member of Fire District 8 for over 30 years, Doug was a dedicated Firefighter & Investigator, talented photographer, brother, son, uncle, and friend. Funeral services are scheduled for Friday. December 16th at 1300 hours at Hennessey Funeral Home (1315 N. Pines, Spokane Valley).  After the service, there will be a procession from the funeral home to Station 82 for a reception (12100 E. Palouse Highway, Valleyford, WA).

Doug's family has established a Go Fund Me account and asks that in lieu of flowers you consider making a donation to help defray funeral costs. The family will be extremely appreciative of any amount you can share. 

https://www.gofundme.com/doug-archer-memorial-fund 

Thank you to everyone for the kind words and the support being given to Doug’s family. Please keep his family and friends in your thoughts during this difficult time.