Supervisors commend Saratoga Fire Protection District for 100 years of service to community
SAN JOSE – Santa Clara County Supervisor Joe Simitian and his Board colleagues recognized the Saratoga Fire Protection District today for 100 years of serving the community. The Saratoga Fire Protection District is an independent special district that also provides residents – many of whom live in the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) – with defensible space and home hardening services, which involve addressing a home's vulnerabilities to better withstand wildfire.
“For 100 years now, the Saratoga Fire Protection District has been a highly valued asset of our community and respected by residents for being a stable and dependable fire service provider,” said Simitian, whose District Five includes the City of Saratoga.
Over the past 100 years, the Saratoga Fire Protection District has provided fire protection and emergency medical services to residents in half the City of Saratoga as well as unincorporated lands to the west and southwest of the city. The District is governed by a three-member Board of Fire Commissioners who are duly elected by District residents to four-year terms.
“I am honored to accept this commendation from Supervisor Simitian and the Board of Supervisors recognizing the 100th anniversary of the Saratoga Fire Protection District,” said Ernie Kraule, Chair of the Board of Fire Commissioners, adding that the commendation would be placed in a prominent location at the Saratoga Fire Station. The District is planning a celebration party in September.
The Saratoga Fire Protection District was established on February 18, 1924. The District owns the fire station located at 14380 Saratoga Avenue, as well as a restored 1928 Model AA fire engine considered to be a treasured community asset and frequently found at events in the community.
“Congratulations on your 100th anniversary,” said Simitian at today’s commendation presentation. “Thank you for your steadfast commitment to the safety of the Saratoga community. We need you now more than ever.”