The Stevensville Town Council meeting on August 14, 2025, highlighted critical issues facing the local fire department, particularly concerning emergency medical services (EMS). The fire department reported a total of 78 service requests in July, with 61 being medical calls. Alarmingly, 11 of these calls were missed due to insufficient staffing, raising concerns about the community's ability to respond effectively to emergencies.

The fire department's staffing challenges stem from a lack of trained volunteers. The cost of EMT training, ranging from $1,200 to $1,800, has deterred potential recruits, especially since the council has not allocated funds for training reimbursement for the past two years. This funding cut has left the department unable to train new volunteers, resulting in a significant drop in personnel from 28 members to just 14.

The fire chief emphasized the urgency of addressing these staffing shortages, noting that the community relies heavily on the fire department for EMS. The chief expressed frustration that while training funds for other departments are prioritized, the fire department's needs have been overlooked. Without immediate action to secure training funding and recruit new volunteers, the department risks further compromising its ability to serve the community effectively.

In addition to the fire department's concerns, the police department reported a relatively uneventful month of July, with 85 calls for service and only one arrest. The department acknowledged the support from the Ravalli County Sheriff's Office during local events, which contributed to a safe environment.

As the council moves forward, the pressing need for enhanced EMS training and recruitment remains a top priority. The fire department's ability to respond to emergencies is crucial for the safety and well-being of Stevensville residents, and without adequate support, the community may face significant risks in the future.