For many months, Newberg and TVF&R have been integrating operations as part of a two-year contract that officially starts July 1 where TVF&R will be the fire and emergency medical service provider for citizens in Newberg and the surrounding area. A swearing-in ceremony was held this past Tuesday where TVF&R’s Fire Chief Mike Duyck officially recognized Newberg firefighters as new members of TVF&R (see photos on pages two-five).

Newberg’s Fire Chief Les Hallman has been an integral part of the discovery process leading up to the contract. Hallman states, “We are very encouraged about the benefits of a partnership and feel it will improve our ability to provide fast and effective emergency response while maintaining our strong tradition of community service.” As of July 1, Chief Hallman’s new role with TVF&R will be the assistant chief overseeing the District’s emergency medical services, training and volunteer program.

The TVF&R of today is rooted in partnerships like these. TVF&R took shape between 1972 and 2004, as a number of small fire departments consolidated to share limited resources and save money. It’s because of these consolidation and annexation efforts that TVF&R has one of the lowest tax rates in the region. TVF&R maintains a small-town heart with the benefits of a large cooperative. Fire Chief Mike Duyck states, “We are very pleased that the dedicated firefighters, staff and volunteers of Newberg are joining our team, and we’re eager to serve the Newberg community together. Emergencies don’t know political or geographical boundaries. People experiencing a crisis just want to know that when they call 911, they can rely on first responders to provide high-quality care. This partnership will strengthen the system for our region.”