Northshore Fire Fund
Serving Lucerne, Clearlake Oaks, Glenhaven, Nice, Spring Valley, Long Valley, Upper Lake, Witter Springs, Bachelor Valley, Saratoga Springs, Bartlett Springs and Blue Lakes Se |
Tax Deductible Donations
Northshore faces a growing challenge as it evolves to meet the changing needs of our community – with a significant decrease in government funds. Northshore demographics are very diverse, the district landscape is demanding, and the increased traffic on our roads impact fire district preparation and response. Additional funds are critical. |
FAQs |
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How much of my contribution goes to Northshore Fire and how much covers administrative costs for the foundation?
The Northshore Fire Fund board and committee members and others volunteer their time and expertise in many areas including marketing, communications, graphic design, website design, and business development. The Fire Fund eagerly encourages the participation of residents or any representative of the Northshore District in its efforts and activity seeks in-kind donations as well.
Is the Fire District Seeking Grants to offset the budget gap?
The Fire District seeks all grant opportunities that are pertinent. In fact, in preparation for wildland season 2020 we were able to purchase new wildland PPE for our Northshore crews with grant funds from the California Fire Fund and the Cal Fire Volunteer Firefighter Assistance grant.
Who Oversees the Fire District Budget?
The budget is produced by the Fire Chief and Admin Staff. The Northshore Fire District Board of Directors have two members that sit on a finance committee that will preliminarily approve the budget, at that point, it will be brought before the full board for approval. After the preliminary budget is approved it is sent to the county auditor's office, which will confirm that it meets County and State requirements. The Auditor's office will also ensure that the District has the funds to cover the requested budget.
Will my contributions go toward offsetting the Fire District expenses for firefighter salaries or pensions?
No. Donations to the Northshore Fire Fund will only be used for tangible assets and will never be used for firefighter salaries or benefits.
Has Northshore received Contribution before?
Yes, The Northshore Fire Prevention District has received unsolicited contributions from grateful residents and businesses. A recent example was NFPD was able to purchase new (to them) Electric Extrication Tools that they have now put on all three 24-hr medic units. These tools were bough with fund donated to NFPD by the Lake County Wine Alliance and some individual donations. The formation of the Northshore Fire Fund now enables private citizens to make tax-deductible contributions.
Can I earmark my contributions for a specific item or project?
Yes, if there's something on our goals page of special interest it can be earmarked for that item or project. However, an open contribution enables the Fire District to request funds where they're most needed based on tactical and strategic plans.
what is the oversight process to ensure that funds raised are used appropriately?
All contributions to the FIRE FUND are maintained and governed by its Board of Directors in accordance with the NORTHSHORE FIRE FUND by-laws. Per these bylaws the NFF must produce an annual report which contains its annual assets and liabilities, principal changes in assets and liabilities, revenue, and expenses and disbursements for the fiscal year. The NFF recommends and oversees disbursements to the fire district upon confirmation by a vote of the Board of Directors. Whenever possible, the NFF solicits in-kind, underwriting or sponsorships to offset its operational expenses.