Having been a volunteer on the GVFD since 1976, the Gearhart Fire Station building was, at that time, 18 years old. Fast forward to 2022. It is now a 64-year-old dilapidated building, well past its useful years. We have squeezed every ounce of use out of it.

Present day, we have an understanding of tsunami inundation zones and our vulnerability to them. Of course, no one knows when the earthquake will happen or just how large the wave will be. But why would we not plan for that? Is that a wise use of taxpayer dollars to consider building in an inundation zone, putting all of the resources we have in harm’s way, making us powerless to recover as quickly and efficiently as possible because our facility and equipment will have been damaged by both earthquake and water? That’s just fiscally irresponsible.

As firefighters/first responders we are part of the community. The community of full-time residents, part-time residents, 2nd home owners who come here occasionally, and out-of-area visitors. When disaster hits, out-of-area visitors are just as much a part of the community as anyone else.

Let’s not forget that we serve them, too. It is a privilege to serve everyone who needs our help. But we can’t do it if we don’t have what we need to function optimally because our equipment is not available to us due to damage. Damage that could have been avoided.

Please join me in voting yes for Measure 4-213. Our lives depend on it.

Ron Britton

Gearhart