CENTRAL CITY – At the October 7, 2024, meeting of the Timberline Fire Protection District’s board of directors, two new volunteer firefighters were introduced: Mandy and David Bongiovanni, a married couple from Missouri Lakes. 

Mandy brings a strong background in dispatch, while David is the lead mechanic for Gilpin County, adding valuable expertise to the district’s operations. Their addition to the team marks an exciting step forward for the department as it continues to grow and serve the community.

The meeting was held at Station 9, located just a mile south of downtown Central City. 

The evening began with an open house from 5 to 6 p.m., where residents had the opportunity to meet their local firefighters, tour a fire truck, and chat with both the board and the district’s mitigation coordinator.

Board members present included President Rick Wenzel, Vice Chairman John Bushey, and Member at Large John Carder. Attending virtually was Member at Large Kristin Turner, while Member at Large Mary Kate McKenna was absent but excused.

A major focus of the meeting was the first draft of the 2025 budget, which presented a beginning balance of $914,407 and an expected end balance of $647,971. 

Bushey brought up a key point regarding professional fees, which had exceeded projections for the 2024 estimation. Administrative Chief Jennifer Hinderman explained that the increase was due to significant grant writing this year, a necessary move to secure funding. The board agreed that future work sessions would be needed to refine the budget.

Chief Paul Ondr provided updates on several capital projects. Station 1 is nearing completion on its new generator installation, with inspections scheduled soon. 

At Station 3, the environmental study required for its USDA grant will be submitted shortly, allowing work on the garage bays to move forward. 

Station 5 is nearly done with its concrete work, with just minor repairs remaining.

In his operations report, Ondr mentioned that the district responded to 65 calls in September. He is also working on an updated apparatus plan, expected to be ready in November. 

Wildfire mitigation continues to be a priority, with Stage 1 fire restrictions in place and Brush 52 currently deployed to Wyoming for a Forest Service assignment.

The administrative side of the district is also staying busy. Ondr is awaiting word on a $200,000 grant from the Energy/Mineral Impact Assistance Fund for the Observatory (Station 3). 

Additionally, the Timberline Volunteer Firefighters Foundation recently donated TVs for Station 3’s dayroom and new barbecues for Stations 3 and 5. 

High Country Auxiliary also provided generous support, including $9,000 for new Knox Box keys and $7,500 for gym equipment.

After this, the meeting adjourned, with the next regular session scheduled for November 12, 2024, at Station 3, 19126 Highway 119, in Black Hawk.