The Soboba Fire Department was established in 2014 and since then has continued to grow in training, services offered, apparatus and personnel. With the grand opening of its new station that has 13,400 square feet of indoor space and sits on more than two acres it can only get stronger in its quest to provide the best in public safety services.
At a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 7, about 300 invited guests toured the new facility and got to learn about its three engines.
Emcee and Tribal Administrator Michael Castello recognized those family members who support their loved ones’ chosen profession as a firefighter.
Tribal Council Vice Chair Isaiah Vivanco said the new fire station is the second piece to a bigger puzzle, with the first being February’s opening of the Soboba Casino Resort.
“Being a partner in the valley and making sure we are a part of it and coming together and revitalizing the community is very important for the tribe,” he said.
Glenn Patterson has been hired as the new Fire Chief and will start July 1. After 33 years with CAL FIRE and about 18 months as Assistant Deputy Director, Fire Protection Operations in Sacramento, Patterson welcomed the opportunity to return to the area he knows well.
“I spent 31 of my years with CAL FIRE in Riverside County,” said Patterson, who lived in the San Jacinto Valley for 25 years.
Hemet Fire Chief Scott Brown offered a congratulatory message at the grand opening celebration.
“On behalf of the entire City of Hemet Fire Department and every fire agency here in the valley, we stand committed to work together to support you and to build on traditions and to provide the best service possible for our community.”
Tribal Council Member at Large Rose Salgado acknowledged the efforts of tribal elders and past Tribal Council members who made it all possible.
“It was a long time coming and you are all to be applauded – we are so appreciative,” she said.
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