County approves annexation of 2 subdivisions into VFDs

The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners approved the annexation of two subdivisions into a pair of volunteer fire departments during its meeting in Libby on Wednesday morning.

The Beasley Estates subdivision was annexed into the coverage area of the Bull Lake Volunteer Fire Department while the Fifth Street subdivsion was added to the Libby Rural Volunteer Fire Department’s service area.

Beasley Estates sits on the southwest side of Bull Lake about seven miles from the fire station. John Konzen, commissioners chairman, expressed concern over water supply with two hydrants – one of which is dry. Another subdivision in the same area is pending approval and could be a factor in the future as well. Questions about access were also raised.

Robert Morck and Mike Casey represented the Bull Lake VFD at the meeting. Casey said the department’s crew of volunteers fluctuates but estimated his current roster at six. The response time from the time of the call to arriving at Beasley Estates was estimated at around 30 minutes.

The idea of locating a fire barn on the other side of the lake does not appear to be realistic at the current time.

The annexation of the Fifth Street subdivision into Libby Rural was passed with no discussion. The area involves three properties that border an area previously annexed.

The board approved both annexations on 3-0 votes.