There’s been a lot of smoke lately — and not the kind that requires a fire engine. It’s time to cut through the fearmongering and misinformation surrounding the unification of our fire districts.
Contrary to the conspiracy theories currently doing laps on social media, Elk Creek Fire isn’t being stolen, defunded or dismantled — and it definitely doesn’t need saving by dragging it back to the glory days of 19-whenever. What’s happening is long-overdue modernization, carried out through legal, transparent processes rooted in Colorado law — not some shady backroom deal.
Let’s set the record straight.
First, the board didn’t “bypass the voters.” Unification is occurring through a statute called Exclusion (C.R.S. 32-1-502), written specifically for situations like this. It’s not a loophole — it’s literally how the law works. Our elected board made this decision in open public meetings, with detailed presentations and multiple layers of oversight. Three law firms, three fire chiefs, and 13 board members reviewed and approved the move. Not one of them is looking to throw their careers, reputations, or livelihoods under the bus by doing something illegal. It was a deliberate, legal, and transparent process — and it was unanimously affirmed by the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners. That’s representative democracy in action. You don’t have to love the outcome, but calling it undemocratic is just plain lazy.
Second, the 2023 consolidation vote didn’t reject collaboration. It failed — by just 132 votes — in a confusing election where voters also approved a 2.5-mill increase for Elk Creek with 60% support. That’s not a rejection of progress; it’s an endorsement of better funding and stronger service. Let’s not rewrite history just to fit a personal narrative.
Third, the upcoming election isn’t some dramatic rescue mission. Framing the current situation as a last-ditch effort to “save Elk Creek Fire” might make for a juicy mailer, but it’s political theater — not reality. The actual goal? Better regional coverage, faster response times, and sustainable service. Not some firehouse reboot of Game of Thrones.
As for “defunding”? Please. That phrase should’ve been left in 2020 where it belongs. Trying to shoehorn it into this conversation is not only inaccurate — it’s insulting. The 0.5-mill adjustment is a strategic alignment — not a financial apocalypse. The plan consolidates shared resources, staffing, income, and coverage across a region where fires and heart attacks don’t ask for ID at the county line. Shouting “subsidy!” in the middle of a district-wide reorganization is like yelling “taxation!” every time Jeffco Road and Bridge repaves a road you don’t personally use. It’s a system. It works better when it works together.
Having served in auxiliary roles during the Hayman, Snaking, and Lower North Fork Fires — and with Jeffco HEAT during the Black Forest Fire — I’ve seen what actually works: coordination, preparation, and smart governance. What doesn’t work? Turf wars, nostalgia, and isolationism dressed up as independence.
And about that mythical $20 million station? Come on. This urban legend has made more appearances than Bigfoot at a town hall and still hasn’t produced a single document. No bond proposed. No project approved. If it ever becomes real, you’ll hear about it — through public notice, board discussions, and probably a vote. Until then? It’s bedtime-story material for anxious taxpayers. Honestly, we’ve got a better shot at building a spaceport at Windy Point right now.
Finally, let’s talk volunteers. They are the backbone of mountain fire service. Unification doesn’t erase them — it empowers them. Suggesting that working together somehow crushes local spirit or selflessness isn’t just wrong — it’s disrespectful. What they need is gear, training, and leadership that reflects today’s challenges, not yesterday’s folklore, your NIMBY nostalgia and drama. When the tone drops, it doesn’t matter who you are or where you live – these volunteers and paid staff stop what they are doing to respond.
Unification isn’t the end of Elk Creek Fire. It’s the beginning of something stronger — smarter, safer, and built to last.
Dominique Devaney is a proud Coloradan, longtime Conifer resident, firefighter’s wife, former Elk Creek volunteer, and publicly elected Director of the Elk Creek Fire Protection District — who won’t be swayed by fear, fiction, or cartoon politics.