To the Editor:

Livability is very important to us. We want to live in a community that cares for its citizens. We want to live in a place where neighbors look out for neighbors. We want to live in a community that values its volunteers. We want to live in a community that has the infrastructure to keep all of us safe, healthy and provide educational opportunities.

To us, infrastructure means that our community has schools to educate our young people, a library, a hospital, good roads, parks, cemeteries, police, and firefighters. In John Day and all the communities in Grant County, the firefighters are hardworking volunteers. They volunteer to protect us day and night, 365 days a year.

John Day firefighters deserve to have a building that meets current building and safety codes. They need to be able to exit the building with the needed equipment as quickly as possible. They need space for trucks, gear, and trainings. They need a building that is low maintenance and meets current energy codes so they can spend their time and future funds on keeping our citizens and community safe from fire.

A new building has been designed that will meet all these needs now and in the future.

Lasting changes come from the people. In 1953, our community saw a need and stepped up to build a fire station. Now 60 years later, it is our responsibility to step up for the future of the City of John Day and the John Day Rural Fire District.

Please join us in voting yes for a new fire station for John Day!

Tracie and Tim Unterwegner

John Day