Castle Valley Fire Protection District
Castle Valley Fire Commission
May REGULAR MEETING
Thursday, May 14, 2026 6:00 pm
2 E Castle Valley Dr, Castle Valley, UT 84532
Attending:
Mitch Stock
Ron Drake
Jazmine Duncan
Maggie Peikon
Greg Halliday
Carol Drake
Mike Wakeley
Regular Meeting:
Call to Order: 6:02pm
Public Comment:
Approval of Minutes from April: Approved
Administration Issues:
Communications / Radios
Ron met with Jim Willoway about a month ago and went to about 6-8 locations around the valley to test radios. It seemed that every place they tested had good reception - Round Mountain, Station 1 included. This still doesn't solve our problem with paging. We still need some kind of digital page system. Going to get some used radios from the sheriff (has about 8-10 handheld Kenwood radios to offer). Ron took one home to test out and it sounds clear. They'll be programmed for the agencies we need to communicate with specifically.
Question from community: Would the sheriff be willing/able to program radios for the town? Ron said probably. We'll have to get a dongle and, as he understands it, should be able to program the radio for whatever we need. Need to determine if there is a cost associated with the dongle.
Chief's Report: Ron Drake
Welfare check on Cliffview. Conducted 2 PAC Tests (Jazmine & Bill) - need to have them completed by the end of May 2026. Ron is considering doing some moderate/intermediate PAC Tests additionally (rather than only the arduous test) which is 25 pounds for 2 miles in 30 minutes. Mike is opting out of PAC test.
Sent final forms in for our insurance, due June 1st. Over $9,000.
Did an EMS Assist this morning (5/14)
Engine 37 is ready, Ron just needs to coordinate transportation to get there to pick it up. Cost $5,700. Foam was disconnected.
New radios $9,066. We'll get $9,000 back on radios. Form to fill out for that reimbursement. Greg asked how these radios that we've purchased relate to the radios from the sheriff - Ron confirmed they should be compatible - Greg asked if we did indeed need to buy these. We will hold onto our older radios, and possibly pass them on to the road department.
Treasurer's Report: Carol Drake, Mike Wakeley
We are at $452,328 as of April 30 for the month of April net income $2,747, received $2,250 in donations, $1,355 in interest, $106 in property tax, and not too many expenses during April. YTD $36,308 net income.
Discussion and Possible Action: Updates on Cell Tower
Have not heard anything from Dan since our last meeting in April. We have a proposed site plan for placement at the Fire Department, but nothing concrete. Dan's job is to come up with renderings for us and potentially a balloon, as well as having a community meeting to discuss all of these elements. Working to see if we can have meeting agendas/updates added to the Fire Department's website for everyone to be aware of upcoming meeting.
Greg asked if it's on our property, or Daystar property, it will remain in view. Mitch noted that various setbacks and easements will determine placement on either property. Ron noted that they have a large piece of property, so it's unknown where it would be. Greg continues to share the point that whether the fire department puts the tower in, or they do, it will still be in the same general area.
Dan mentioned that three rejections were required before they can take the proposal to BLM, they have already received one rejection.
Jazmin noted we should have Daystars involvement in the town meeting when the time comes, so that they are aware of the community's opinion on the matter. Ask Jocelyn about adding information about that meeting to the town website/communication.
Carol commented on the financial side: They were offering money per month, if the fire department did sign a lease for this they would want to think of the legal cost to have someone look at the agreement. There is growing opposition, so the fire department would probably want to budget for potential lawsuits/litigation as a result of placement of the tower, and the loss of donors.
Sue joined to note that she understands the financial benefit, but wants to know why else we would want it. Mitch noted that communication would be the biggest benefit - the ability to work off of phones. It's about life safety. Mitch noted that we are being offered radio with new technology that allows us to bounce off of two different towers that could help fill the gaps experienced. Mitch also noted that it's hard for us to qualify for grants for financial opportunities to support the fire department. Needing equipment, new fire tender, these are all financial burdens to consider that are necessary for the fire department to do their job. Donations could help us overcome those hurdles.
Harry wanted to reiterate what's being said so far. Has been hearing from many people around the valley who are unhappy with the tower - 20-30 people getting together to organize against it. This group would do fundraising to make up for any loss of income for the tower. They're unhappy with the tower whether it's on Fire Department land, BLM land, etc., anywhere in the valley. Noted that each time a carrier is added, a pole is added to the top of the tower, and each needs equipment down at the bottom of the tower as well.
Jazmin suggested inviting local BLM to a future town meeting on this topic to ensure they realize the community opposition as well.
Discussion and possible action on long term planning, fire dept. needs, priorities, vision and policies: development of standard operating guidelines, policies and procedures.
Closed Session (if necessary): personnel matters, awards; recognition program, etc.
Adjourn: 6:55pm
Notice of Special Accommodations (ADA)
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, individuals needing special accommodations (including auxiliary communicative aids and services) during this meeting should notify Leta Vaughn at 435-259-2364.