The clang of a bell in the distance. The wail of a siren quickly getting louder. Gleaming chrome against impeccable red and gold paint. A fire engine tears around a corner, on its way to help someone in need. How does a particular engine become such a vital part of our community? Chief Warren Peterson, originally from California, has been working as the East Olympia Fire District 6 (EOFD) chief for just under five years. In addition to managing District 6, Chief Peterson makes sure the organization follows state and national standards, especially concerning budgeting matters. He says he wants to make sure the taxpayers “get the most bang for their buck.”
Fire stations are funded by local levies and bonds, as well as by general property taxes. All of these are part of how the East Olympia Fire District 6 was able to purchase their new fire engine, or “apparatus.”