Pflugerville on Fire

Send us a text

Unlock the secrets behind the surging expenses of the Travis County ESD2, better known as the Pflugerville Fire Department, with our finance director, Jessica Frazier. This episode promises to demystify the financial complexities, revealing why ceasing ambulance services and reallocation of resources have led to significant operational changes. Jessica, with her wealth of experience from the city of Austin, provides an expert analysis on agreements with ESD 17 and Travis County that generate additional revenue but also necessitate a doubling of our fire stations from four to eight. 

Get ready for an enlightening discussion about budgeting, financial management, and the strategic importance of maintaining healthy reserves. Jessica and I tackle common misconceptions about budget padding and break down the financial implications of Proposition A, which could force station closures if passed. We'll highlight why the majority of our budget goes toward salaries and benefits, making it tough to cut costs without affecting services. Transparency and ethical financial management are key themes throughout this episode. Join us for a deep dive into the fiscal strategies that keep our fire department thriving.

Send us a text

Discover the complexities of local governance and the financial intricacies that shape our emergency services in Pflugerville. Join us as we sit down with tech sales engineer and community advocate Anthony Nguyen. Anthony sheds light on the controversial issue of abolishing sales tax revenue for the fire department and explains the complicated two-step process required by state law. With his deep involvement in local government, Anthony offers invaluable insights into how sales tax is allocated in Pflugerville compared to neighboring areas like Round Rock and Wells Branch.

Uncover the financial hurdles and political challenges that have shaped the Pflugerville Fire Department, Emergency Service District 2 (ESD2) over the past decade. From their reliance on property and sales taxes to the new property tax limits and the creation of ESD17 in Wells Branch, we explore the multi-layered funding and management of these critical services. We discuss the broader implications for emergency medical services and the community's response to potential cuts in ambulance services, emphasizing the pivotal role of community involvement in driving change.

Finally, learn about the tax allocation for public safety services and the substantial role that city staff on budget allocations. Learn how community advocacy can influence council decisions and bring about meaningful changes. We also delve into the potential consequences of eliminating sales tax and the challenges of transitioning emergency services. Don’t miss our upcoming guest, ESD2 Board of Commissioner Vice President April Griffin, as we continue to tackle these vital issues affecting Pflugerville.

Send us a text

Join us on "Pflugerville on Fire" for an eye-opening conversation with Cody Smith, a dedicated firefighter paramedic who has been bravely serving the Pflugerville community since 2022. Cody opens up about the emotional and intense experiences that first responders face daily, and how these moments solidified his calling in EMS. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and rewards from his time in the cadet program, detailing the camaraderie, rigorous training, and both the physical and mental demands required to thrive in this field.

Through Cody's vivid storytelling, we'll examine the stark contrasts between two emergency calls that highlight the critical importance of preparation and communication. Hear about a well-coordinated response to a traumatic arrest on Route 130 and compare it to a chaotic and disorganized ambulance call involving a patient with head trauma. Cody's firsthand accounts vividly illustrate the unpredictable nature of EMS work and the essential need for thorough training.

As our discussion unfolds, we tackle the pressing issue of safety funding and how it directly impacts community well-being. Cody shares real-life examples of lifesaving interventions and explains the potential dangers posed by policy changes, such as abolishing a crucial sales tax that funds the fire department. We'll also explore the complex relationship between public safety and political decisions, emphasizing the tangible effects these choices have on the community. Don't miss this insightful episode with Cody Smith, who brings his passion for service and dedication to the forefront of our conversation.

Send us a text

How would you feel if your community’s fire department lost 40% of its funding overnight? On this episode of Pflugerville on Fire, we sit down with Chief Nick Perkins to discuss the dire consequences of abolishing the sales tax revenue that sustains the Pflugerville Fire Department. Chief Perkins shares his candid thoughts on how laying off 133 firefighters and closing multiple fire stations would drastically increase response times and compromise emergency services. This isn't just about numbers; it’s about lives and property at stake.
 
 We also take a closer look at Travis County ESD 2's financial structure and why the 2014 sales tax measure is so critical. Through vivid accounts, including a recent brush fire, we illustrate how defunding would severely impact firefighter safety, training programs, and essential services like advanced life support and ambulance services. Chief Perkins clears up common misconceptions and highlights the cost-efficiency and transparency of the department compared to similar fire departments in central Texas.
 
 Learn more about the department's ISO Rating that keeps commercial and some homeowner's insurance rates low.

Read the study published by the Perryman Group on the economic benefits & potential cost savings from Emergency Services Districts.

Learn the facts on the Pflugerville Fire Department's website.

Send us a text

Ever wondered how a small volunteer fire department can transform into a thriving Emergency Services District? Join us as we sit down with former Fire Chief Ron Moellenberg, who has been a cornerstone of the Pflugerville Fire Department since 1977. From the earnest beginnings of bake sales and street dances to the landmark formation of the Rural Fire Prevention District in 1985, Chief Moellenberg shares riveting stories that highlight the department's evolution and the community's unwavering support. Gain unique insights into the grit and camaraderie that helped shape the department into the professional entity it is today. 

Through Chief Moellenberg's captivating anecdotes, we explore the challenges and triumphs that came with limited resources and the pre-911 era, emphasizing a time when community self-reliance was paramount. As the department grew alongside the city, adapting to its changing needs, the shared dedication of the volunteers became the bedrock of its success. Listen in as we also discuss contemporary issues, such as the potential impacts of repealing sales tax on the department's capacity to serve. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the resilience and commitment of the Pflugerville Fire Department and its enduring significance to the community.

Send us a text