Chief Stewart Believes Fire Merger Good for Two Communities

Yakima Fire Chief Bob Stewart says cities of Yakima and Union Gap both benefit from a new relationship in which Yakima will take over Union Gap's fire-protection services.

Stewart says the agreement breaks down what he calls the political walls that have existed for years between the two cities.

It gives us the opportunity to try some things to reduce redundancies to build partnerships and opens the door to some future good things.

The benefits for both cities include more firefighters, volunteers and more equipment that will help when large fires break out -- or to be on standby while other units are busy.

The Yakima City Council approved the agreement Tuesday night. The Union Gap City Council previously approved the relationship, but needs to vote again because of changes in the contract. If approved, the three-year agreement would go into effect in January.