Letter: Are public agencies keeping their properties in South Lake Tahoe fire safe?

The author shared the following letter with South Tahoe Now that was sent to SLT Fire Chief Jeff Meston concerning fire safety and the responsibility of all public agencies to assist him and the Department in this effort. "Best wishes to you and the men and women of the Fire Department," said Jinkens.

Dear Chief Meston:

First of all, my sincere thanks to you and the men and women who serve our community in the Fire Service. I am grateful for all of your work and effort to keep our community fire safe and to respond to emergency calls for service.

Fire Season is here
I am writing on a topic that is sadly no stranger to South Lake Tahoe, the South Shore and many parts of California. Safety from fire conflagration has been a topic of great interest and concern to me since I had the good fortune to come to South Lake Tahoe in 2002. I believe we share a common opinion that all public agencies within the City limits have a duty and responsibility to ensure that their lands are fire safe.

Are public lands fire safe?
As we are once again in the fire danger season after our wet winter, foliage and plants growth within public properties in the City limits have vastly increased. Not all appear to be fire safe. I want to be certain that all Federal, State, and local agencies with built or vacant lands in the City limits are actively taking the necessary steps to ensure that their properties are fire safe when the foliage dries and becomes susceptible to fire. My hope and expectation is that these public agencies are working collaboratively and cooperatively with you and your Department to protect our environment and our people. Specifically, have these agencies given you a schedule for the completion of measures they will take to make their properties fire safe? Are they following their schedule?

The 2007 Angora Fire
I remember all too well the 2007 Angora Fire and the devastation it created on the members of our community, our environment, private property, and our economy because in large part of then existing antiquated and outdated fire management practices and regional rules. The rules became more safety sensitive after that experience, and I hope the practice of making public properties fire safe is continuing.

How can the community help?
Please let me know how community members of a like mind might be of assistance if for any reason you and the Department are not getting the type of cooperation that is needed and necessary. I am here to help, encourage, support, and advocate for fire safety. I am no stranger to the topic. I would welcome if no such actions are necessary.

My best wishes and regards. I look to you for insight on this issue.

Sincerely,

David M. Jinkens, MPA
Public Policy and Good Government Advocate