Call Volumes during Fiscal Year 2024-25 by Station

For the geographic capture, please see the Citygate presentation linked below.

May 20, 2026

Neighbors and Property Owners,

We are writing to share an important update regarding the future of fire protection and emergency medical services in Big Bear Lake. Our goal is simple: to ensure that when you call for help, you receive the highest level of care possible by a team that is efficient, well-funded, and ready for anything.

Putting Your Safety First

For some time, we have been navigating a funding imbalance that has made it difficult to maintain the long-term standards you deserve. To address this, the Big Bear Lake Fire Protection District (BBLFPD) is considering a strategic partnership with San Bernardino County Fire.

This isn't just about changing a logo on a truck—it’s about better service. By joining forces with a larger regional partner, the Big Bear Lake community gains:

• Fiscal Responsibility: A more stable financial path that ensures your tax dollars are used as effectively as possible without increasing taxes.
• Enhanced Resources: Increased staffing model, additional personnel during major emergencies, and access to specialized equipment.
• Faster Responses: Improved coordination across the region to ensure the closest available unit gets to you quickly.

Local Control Stays with You

We know that regional partnerships can sometimes sound like losing your voice. We want to be very clear: Control remains in the hands of the people you elected. Your City Council and Fire Protection District Board—the representatives who live in your neighborhoods and understand our unique mountain community—will continue to advocate for your needs. We are entering this partnership because it gives your elected officials better tools to serve you, not fewer. We are, and will remain, accountable to you.

Join the Conversation

We want you to have all the facts. The BBLFPD Board will hold a public meeting to discuss this proposal in detail:

• When: May 28th at 4:00 p.m.
• Where: Hofert Hall, Civic Center, 39707 Big Bear Boulevard, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
• How: You can find the Live Stream of this meeting by visiting www.bigbearlake.gov or the City of Big Bear Lake’s YouTube channel.
• What: A presentation on the proposed contract and how these service enhancements will work will be presented at this meeting.

If approved, this new partnership is expected to begin on July 1, 2027.

We encourage you to stay informed and stay involved. For more details, please visit our Fire Protection District page.

Sincerely,

Chair Rick Herrick

Big Bear Lake Fire Protection District