The looming threat of the next possible wildland fire prompted the Cave Creek Town Council to discuss its plan for establishing emergency fire protection services to protect everyone’s safety. “Look at what we lost this last year,” Mayor Ernie Bunch said during the meeting. “This not a thing that we can afford to put our people through.” The council was presented with options and corresponding estimated costs and benefits during a town council meeting on Feb. 16. Jim Ford, city of Scottsdale deputy chief and fire marshal, led the presentation. Ford played a major role in the creation of the Scottsdale Fire Department and has been working directly for the town “on loan” offering his expertise to help explore ways of establishing contemporary fire services for Cave Creek. The town approved an intergovernmental agreement with the city of Scottsdale in November which allowed Ford to offer his assistance in exchange for the town paying his current salary and benefits.