Ballot Measure Could Prevent Cayucos from Losing Fire Services - KCOY Santa Maria, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo - News

Ballot Measure Could Prevent Cayucos from Losing Fire Services If Passed

CAYUCOS, Calif. -- Local fire services could be lost in Cayucos is a measure on the November ballot is not passed, but it could cost residents more money.  

Central Coast News found out if Measure C is not passed, the Cal Fire station will not be staffed during the non fire season, leaving Cayucos in a tough situation. Currently Cal Fire is staffed year around but during non fire season Cayucos fire protection district pays for its services.

Cayucos Fire no longer has enough money to cover that cost. So the measure would require a typical house owner to pay $100 a year compared to $20 a year. Without Cal Fire, Cayucos will only have 15 volunteers for emergencies. "We would have 1 officer responding that is on paid call and then we would be at the mercy of the volunteers, as they are available and they certainly do a great job at making themselves available but they also work, go to school, they are not always available in town so we could be faced with a real lack of man power at any given time." said Chief Bill Radke.

Besides volunteers, fire crews from other nearby communities would be available, such as Morro Bay and Cambria, increasing response time.

Measure C will also help Cayucos rebuild its reserves to cover emergencies and replace equipment.