Cda Tribe May Start Own Fire Department

Concerned about protection of its growing casino complex and other reservation businesses, the Coeur d’Alene Tribe may open its own fire department.

It would probably share resources with the Plummer Gateway fire district, tribal officials said.

“If the tribe was to do it by themselves, it would be a long way away,” said tribal wildlands fire manager Tom Pakootas.

At the direction of the tribal council, Pakootas has been researching the possibility for a new department. He envisions having eight full-time firefighters to provide 24-hour coverage. Volunteers would provide backup.

Startup costs would be at least $1 million, Pakootas said.

The Worley Fire District is larger and includes the tribal casino. But talks of a joint operation with Worley fell apart about a year ago.

Plummer is the location of the tribe’s headquarters. Plummer Fire Chief Mike Meagher said a joint department would benefit the entire community.

“We’re in a very high growth stage for Plummer,” he said. “We’re able to maintain what we have … but if we don’t plan for the future, we’ll be in trouble.”

Maegher is the only paid firefighter in Plummer. He has 18 volunteers, five firefighting trucks and a cramped building.