A union that represents Eugene and Springfield firefighters is calling on local leaders to begin the process of creating a fire district that would allow Eugene-Springfield Fire Department to operate more independently of the cities it covers.

IAFF Local 851 President Brett Deedon said recent issues with funding in both city budgets “bring great concern to us as a local union.”

He said creating a fire district has been discussed as an option for 30 years, and now is the time to do so. He said operating as an independent fire district would offer several advantages over the current model.

"Stability, dedicated funds not at the whim of city budgets. Clear accountability through an elected board. Operational efficiency removing duplications and boosting effectiveness. And long-term strateg

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