Two dilapidated fire stations in San Bernardino will be replaced thanks in large part to a record $7 million donation from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.
In return, the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District will provide the reservation a reciprocal exchange of fire, rescue and emergency medical services over 10 years. The partnership aims to better protect San Bernardino residents and neighboring tribal lands by lowering response times during emergency situations.
Announced late last month, the partnership has been in the works for about a year, county fire officials said. The agreement becomes effective July 1, according to a news release.
Dan Munsey, assistant county fire chief, said San Manuel’s donation “will allow the district to avoid budgeting the millions of dollars that are required for the significant modifications that these stations need to ensure the safety of our firefighters.”