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Laurel Lake Fire & Rescue — Commercial Township Fire District 3

Quick summary: Laurel Lake Fire & Rescue has two seats open for the 2026 election, with Janet Campbell and Larry Coffman running for re-election. Outreach has been sent, but no responses have been received so far. There appears to be budget approval on the ballot this year, though official wording has not yet been obtained. There may also be a ballot question related to LOSAP (Length of Service Award Program). Additional clarification may be available at the next scheduled meeting on February 8.

Candidates

Janet Campbell (running for re-election)

Outreach sent. No response received as of publication.

Larry Coffman (running for re-election)

Outreach sent. No response received as of publication.

Ballot Questions

Budget approval (wording not yet confirmed)

There appears to be a budget approval question on the ballot. Official ballot language has not yet been obtained and will be posted once confirmed.

LOSAP modification (points system)

A ballot question related to LOSAP is expected. While official wording is not yet available, the discussion appears to center on changing how points are earned — moving from percentage-based calculations to a system based on number of calls responded to and attendance.

Issues

District-specific issues
  • Bank communication: The district has had difficulty communicating with TD Bank without an authorized representative making the call.
  • Fuel costs: Laurel Lake appears to cover fuel expenses for other fire districts within Commercial Township.
  • Water testing: There is an ongoing issue involving coliform detection, which is expected to be followed up.
  • Website maintenance: Maintenance issues appear to be resolving through the use of outside assistance.
County-wide issues (applies to all districts)
  • Staffing shortages across fire and EMS services
  • Volunteer sustainability vs cost of living
  • Low voter turnout in fire district elections
  • Lack of consistent public meeting coverage
  • EMS uncertainty related to Inspira contracts
  • Inter-district radio communication limitations

Coverage

Coverage log
  • Meeting coverage: Additional information may be obtained at the February 8 meeting.
  • Interviews: None conducted yet.
  • Articles: TBD