New Fire Boat Marine 27

• Urgent Need Identified After Shelter Bay Marina Fire: The need for a new fireboat became clear after the 2014 Shelter Bay Marina fire, highlighting the limitations of the existing boat for effective emergency response.

• Community-Driven Effort: The effort to secure a new fireboat has been driven by the dedication of local firefighters, town council members, and community leaders, with many volunteers contributing their expertise to ensure the best solution.

• Enhanced Emergency Response: A new fireboat will dramatically improve our ability to respond to emergencies, including marina fires, medical emergencies on the water, boaters in distress, and water rescues in the surrounding area.

• Specialized Training Program: The department has implemented a comprehensive training program, including classroom instruction and hands-on learning, led by a licensed captain, to ensure our crew is prepared to operate the new fireboat effectively.

• Collaborative Fundraising Effort: Through the hard work of Mayor Marna Hanneman, Town Administrator Scott Thomas, and key community figures, we’ve secured initial funding from the town and the Port of Skagit to begin the project, but donations are essential to complete the boat and ensure its full functionality.

• Focused on Long-Term Sustainability: The Boat Committee, made up of experts in marine operations, carefully researched and designed the boat to meet our community’s needs, ensuring a vessel that will serve La Conner for years to come.

• State and Local Support: Our efforts gained momentum with support from local government leaders and state legislators, securing crucial funding from multiple sources, but we still need community contributions to complete the project.

• A Major Step for La Conner’s Safety: This new fireboat represents a significant investment in the safety and well-being of our community, ensuring we are better prepared for the challenges of living in a waterfront town.