Fire Protection Statement

To the Residents of Pine City and Surrounding Communities,

The City of Pine City is deeply saddened by the devastating loss caused by the recent house fire in the City of Rock Creek. Our thoughts are with the affected family during this incredibly difficult time.

We want to clarify the role of the Pine City Fire Department in this situation. While our department stood ready to assist, we were canceled by dispatch in accordance with the current fire service agreements. Under the existing contract, the City of Rush City Fire Department is responsible for fire protection in Rock Creek and must request our assistance before we can respond.

The City of Pine City owns and operates its fire department, choosing to provide fire protection services to neighboring cities and townships through contractual agreements. As part of a cost-saving decision, the City of Rock Creek opted to contract exclusively with the City of Rush City for fire protection. Consequently, Pine City ended its previous mutual aid agreement with Rush City. However, a paid contracted aid agreement remains in place, allowing either department to request assistance when needed. To date, Rush City Fire has not requested aid from Pine City Fire Department under this agreement.

Since the implementation of this new arrangement, multiple significant fires have occurred in Rock Creek. Despite this, Pine City has not been called upon to assist. Prior to these changes, Pine City officials had informed the Rock Creek City Council that altering fire service agreements could potentially impact homeowners' insurance for residents living within five miles of the Pine City Fire Hall.

The City of Pine City remains committed to protecting our community and supporting our neighboring cities whenever possible. We are actively engaged in ongoing negotiations with the City of Rush City to maintain our aid agreements and ensure effective emergency response for all communities involved.

This winter has brought immense loss to multiple families in Pine City and the surrounding areas. Our hearts go out to everyone affected. We remain dedicated to the safety and well-being of our residents and will continue working toward solutions that best serve our communities.

 

Respectfully,

Kent Bombard

Mayor, City of Pine City