10/12/2026
Pecatonica Fire Protection District Seeks Community Support for Full-Time EMS Staffing
Growing emergency call volume and declining volunteer availability are creating the need for a more sustainable EMS staffing model.
For many years, dedicated volunteers have helped the Pecatonica Fire Protection District provide emergency medical services to our community. Their commitment has allowed the District to maintain a volunteer-based EMS model longer than neighboring communities.
Today, however, that model is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain.
Emergency call volume has grown significantly, increasing from 284 calls in 2012 to more than 600 calls in 2025. At the same time, the District has fewer than seven EMS volunteers, with additional retirements anticipated. The demands of responding to emergencies, completing required training and maintaining certification while also working a full-time job have made volunteer recruitment and retention increasingly challenging.
Why the Referendum Is Needed
The District has already begun supplementing volunteer coverage with paid EMS staff from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., but current funding does not support full-time staffing around the clock.
The November referendum would provide funding to help establish a sustainable, full-time EMS staffing model.
Support for the referendum would help the District:
• Provide more reliable EMS coverage when residents call 911
• Maintain trained emergency medical personnel who are ready to respond
• Reduce dependence on a shrinking pool of volunteers.
• Create a sustainable EMS model for the future
Without additional long-term funding, the District would need to continue using existing savings to support paid EMS coverage, an approach that cannot be sustained indefinitely.
The Need Has Changed
This transition reflects a broader change in how emergency medical services are delivered in the area. Other nearby communities transitioned to full-time staffing years ago, while Pecatonica has been able to continue relying heavily on volunteers because of their extraordinary dedication. The District believes the time has come to create a staffing model that better reflects today's emergency response demands.
Learn More and Get Involved
The Pecatonica Fire Protection District encourages residents to learn about the referendum, ask questions and understand what it means for emergency medical services in our community before voting this November.
Town Hall meetings are also being planned to provide residents with an opportunity to hear more about their needs, ask questions and learn how the referendum would support EMS services. Dates and locations will be announced soon.
When you or someone you love call 911, having trained EMS personnel available matters. Your support can help ensure Pecatonica has a reliable emergency medical response system for years to come.
For more information, contact:
Pecatonica Fire Protection District
1221 Main Street
Pecatonica, IL
815-239-2513
