CRFD Bond Approved by Voters

Voter support for this bond demonstrates a shared commitment to public safety. Contemporary fire and emergency services rely on modern facilities, equipment, and training. This investment will strengthen emergency preparedness, improve response capabilities, support firefighter health and safety, and help us meet the needs of our community well into the future. "This achievement belongs to our firefighters and the community members who helped share the importance of these investments," said Fire Chief Brent Smith. "Our personnel have spent years identifying needs, developing solutions, and planning for the future. We are grateful to the residents, business leaders, neighborhood advocates, City leadership, and community partners who helped educate voters about the impact these projects will have on public safety. Their support helped make this investment possible."

While this is a moment to celebrate community support of our mission, we must now shift focus to the work ahead. Over the next six years, we will begin a series of projects that will bolster fire and emergency services across Cedar Rapids, including:

· Constructing two new fire stations

· Relocating two existing stations

· Renovating two additional stations

· Building a comprehensive fire training facility designed to support ongoing skill development and prepare firefighters for the evolving challenges facing fire and emergency services.

· Updating firefighting apparatus to improve fleet capacity

Firefighter occupational cancer remains one of the most significant risks within the profession. Health and safety considerations are incorporated throughout every project included in the bond. Facility designs will help reduce exposure risks, support cancer-prevention efforts, and promote the long-term well-being of firefighters.

City Manager Jeff Pomeranz was impressed with the work done by bond organizers and community partners. "We appreciate the confidence Cedar Rapids voters have placed in the City and our Fire Department," he added, "Tremendous effort went into understanding our firefighters' needs and developing a responsible plan to address them. We know every public dollar matters, and voters have given us an opportunity to make a meaningful investment in the future of our Fire Department. We are committed to delivering on that plan and making sure their trust is well placed."

Grassroots efforts played a large part in community awareness and generating support for the bond. IAFF Local 11 President Greg Brenneman spoke to the support this bond generated, and the appreciation felt by each member of their union. "On behalf of the Cedar Rapids Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 11, I want to extend our deep and sincere gratitude for the unwavering support the community has shown to the fire department." He continued. "Today, the community showed up for us, and we will continue to show up for our community. Your gesture of support will not be taken for granted."

CRFD appreciates the trust voters have placed in our Department and remains committed to delivering these projects responsibly and transparently. We look forward to working with our community as we move into the next phase of this once-in-a-generation effort.