Western Taney County Fire Protection District

10/08/2026

10/07/2026

10/06/2026

10/05/2026

November 3: Board of Directors Ballot Question

On November 3, voters in the Western Taney County Fire Protection District will decide whether to expand our Board of Directors from three to five members.

Our district has experienced a 65% increase in call volume over the past eight years as well as experienced rapid growth in commercial occupancies most notably in the short term rental business. The Board of Directors oversees district finances, policies, and long-term planning, including how the district addresses growth over the next 10 years.

Expanding the board would add two elected directors to participate in these discussions and decisions.

• A YES vote supports expanding the board to five members.
• A NO vote supports keeping the board at three members.

No tax increase is being proposed as part of this ballot question. In next week’s Facebook post, I will explain the costs associated with adding two board members.

Our goal is to provide factual information so residents can make an informed decision.

I am always available for questions and can be reached at the Fire District Office at 417-334-3440 or [email protected].

Jim Furgerson
Fire Chief
Western Taney County Fire Protection District

10/02/2026

A perfect evening…

09/28/2026

Residential Structure Fire

WTCFPD Firefighters responded to a residential structure fire in the Village of Merriam Woods at 3:49 pm Monday afternoon.

The homeowner called 9-1–1 reporting the fire in the area of the kitchen and that all occupants were safely out of the residence.

The Fire District responded 2 Engines, 2 Tankers, 1 Heavy Rescue, and the Support Team. TCAD Paramedics also responded for stand-by.

The first arriving chief reported smoke and flames showing from the rear of the structure.

Firefighters were able to contain the fire to the kitchen area, however, the entire home has smoke damage.

The occupant reported he was heating up oil in a pan and left the kitchen for just a few minutes and returned discovering the fire on the stove top that was quickly spreading.

Unattended Cooking Fires are one of the top three causes of residential fires along with Heating Appliances and Electrical Equipment.

Firefighters encourages everyone to never leave cooking appliances in use unattended.

Also, today is a great day to test your smoke alarms for early detection and warning… they could save your life!

The Fire District is supported by Great Volunteer Firefighters (paid per call). We provide all the safety equipment and training… plus great fellowship! Would you consider volunteering for your community? Learn more at www.westerntaneyfire.com

09/18/2026

Over the last two weeks, Western Taney County firefighters trained on using extrication tools and techniques to remove trapped victims from vehicles. They used a variety of tools, such as high-pressure airbags, stabilization struts, and hydraulic tools. We want to extend a big thank you to All Time Towing for graciously providing the cars for our firefighters. Training with extrication equipment is very important in ensuring a safe and quick rescue.