The Oregon Joint Village Board Meeting on July 30, 2025, spotlighted urgent discussions surrounding the need for a new fire station, driven by rapid population growth and inadequate current facilities. With projections estimating an increase of up to 5,000 residents in the next 20 years, the fire department is facing mounting pressure to enhance its response capabilities.

Key discussions revealed that the existing fire station is too small, with only one-third of an acre available for operations. Fire officials emphasized the necessity of acquiring additional land to accommodate a new facility that meets modern standards. They highlighted the challenges of finding suitable properties, particularly those that do not come with hazardous materials or costly demolition needs.

The meeting also addressed the complexities of cost-sharing among municipalities, with officials noting that current agreements do not differentiate based on population growth. This could impact future funding and resource allocation as the village expands.

In a poignant moment, a board member recounted a personal experience where emergency response took an alarming 17 minutes, underscoring the critical need for improved response times and facilities. The board is now urging local municipalities to consider the pressing need for a new fire station and to discuss potential solutions at their upcoming meetings.

As the village prepares for significant growth, the discussions at this meeting signal a pivotal moment for the Oregon community, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning in public safety infrastructure.