The Crescent Mills Fire Department has been declared “defunct” following a unanimous resolution by the Plumas County Board of Supervisors on May 13. Supervisor Kevin Goss noted that the department has lacked a functioning board since 2021, leading to its inability to perform any official actions.
The resolution comes in response to reports of unauthorized use of the fire department’s equipment. Supervisor Tom McGowan indicated that such use would be considered “stolen” property, emphasizing the need to prevent further misuse.
Interim County Counsel Josh Brechtel explained that the resolution serves to clarify the department’s status and does not transfer any authority to the Board of Supervisors. He confirmed that the district is unable to access its funds or execute basic functions.
Elections Clerk Marcy DeMartile stated that no candidates have filed for the Crescent Mills district board since 2021, which prompted the supervisors to recognize the issue without taking on governance responsibilities. Supervisor Mimi Hall echoed this sentiment, asserting that their role is merely to maintain the district’s status.
The situation became more complex when Rob Hawkins, who claimed to be the chief of the Crescent Mills Fire Department, questioned how he was appointed without a functioning board. DeMartile clarified that she requires official documentation to recognize any board, which has not been updated since 2021.
The fire department’s phone has been disconnected, and inquiries to the fire hall went unanswered.
In a related development, the Plumas County Local Agency Formation Commission is working on consolidating the Crescent Mills Fire District into the Indian Valley Community Services District, with a public hearing held on September 20, 2024. The Indian Valley Fire Department is currently handling emergency calls from Crescent Mills to ensure public safety.
Goss remarked on the long-standing independence of the Crescent Mills district, referring to it as a “little kingdom,” and advocated for consolidation to enhance services in the area. The resolution also prohibits unauthorized use of district property until the consolidation is complete. DeMartile noted a decline in volunteerism as a key factor in the district’s current predicament.
