JPA dissolution may reopen Moonridge and Boulder Bay fire stations

The Big Bear Lake Fire Protection District Board of Directors took a significant step toward reshaping fire service in the valley, holding a Special Meeting on April 29, 2026, to evaluate how local taxpayer dollars are being spent — and to act on a partnership that has long defined fire protection in Big Bear[1].

At the heart of the meeting was the dissolution of a Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) between the BBLFPD and San Bernardino County Fire. That agreement had governed how the two agencies shared resources and responsibilities across the valley. With the JPA now dissolved, San Bernardino County Fire is expected to reopen the Moonridge and Boulder Bay fire stations, both of which had been closed[1].

The board framed the decision as a matter of fiscal responsibility, saying it was committed to ensuring that Big Bear Lake's taxpayer dollars are used effectively for the benefit of the community[1]. Exactly why the Moonridge and Boulder Bay stations were originally closed, and what role the JPA played in that outcome, could not be confirmed from available information.

Notably absent from the public record so far is San Bernardino County Fire's perspective on the dissolution and its timeline for reopening the two stations. It is also unclear whether any BBLFPD board members dissented or whether community members directly affected by the closures weighed in during the meeting.

Residents looking for more information or wanting to weigh in should watch for the next regular BBLFPD board meeting. Contact the Big Bear Lake Fire Protection District directly for meeting schedules and public comment opportunities.