Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 1, 2025
Contact:
Board of Directors
Deer Mountain Fire Protection District
Deer Mountain Fire Protection District Launches "Save Emergency Medical Service on the Mountain" Campaign
Deer Mountain, CO — Deer Mountain Fire Protection District (DMFPD) has launched a public education campaign to inform voters about a proposed mill levy increase that will appear on the November 2025 ballot. The initiative, titled “Save Emergency Medical Service on the Mountain,” aims to secure funding to maintain the district’s emergency medical services (EMS) — a vital service currently at risk.
For years, DMFPD has funded EMS through its fire department budget, a temporary solution that has now depleted financial reserves and is no longer sustainable. Without the approval of a modest tax increase, EMS coverage in the district will be discontinued.
“This is not a scare tactic — it’s a reality we must face together,” said newly appointed Deer Mountain Fire Protection District Fire Chief, Marcus Widener. “Without additional funding, we will lose local EMS. There will be no ambulance response on the mountain if AMR or other agencies are already busy. That puts every resident, visitor, and property owner at risk.”
Fremont County Commissioner Dwayne McFall echoed this concern, stating:
“Unfortunately, Fremont County does not have the resources nor the funding to operate an EMS service. My hope is that you all have a very strong campaign informing the taxpayers of the district of the consequences if it does not pass. It would be devastating to lose this service. Without it, AMR may respond—but it could be hours before they were able. Nobody wants that to happen.”
What’s at Stake
• DMFPD EMS and ambulance operations
• Trained EMS staffing
• Local emergency response during medical crises
• Community safety and protection of life and property
The Mill Levy Proposal
If approved, the proposed increase would cost property owners approximately $47 per $100,000 of assessed value — not market value. This will ensure EMS remains available for all residents, full-time and part-time.
DMFPD has not had a mill levy increase since 2011, while the costs of providing emergency services have continued to rise. Compared to other fire districts across Colorado, DMFPD’s current mill levy remains one of the lowest.
Upcoming Town Halls
The district invites the public to attend informational town halls:
• August 16
• September 20
• October 18
Each event will offer an opportunity to learn more, ask questions, and hear directly from EMS providers, district leadership, and residents.
How to Learn More
Residents are encouraged to visit DMFPD.org for additional information and to submit questions directly to the board at Board@DMFPD.org.
About Deer Mountain Fire Protection District
Deer Mountain Fire Protection District is a volunteer-based emergency service provider serving one of the largest geographic fire districts in Colorado. Covering approximately 236 square miles in Fremont County, DMFPD is dedicated to protecting life, property, and natural resources through fire suppression, emergency medical response, rescue operations, and public education. The district serves a diverse population of full-time and part-time residents, along with seasonal visitors and recreational users in rural and mountainous terrain.
For more information, visit DMFPD.org.