Mike Freitas has “retired” from the Idyllwild Water District board effective immediately, he confirmed with the Town Crier late Friday afternoon. He is the second director to leave the IWD board this week. President Jim Billman resigned Monday, as did General Manager Tom Lynch. Lynch did not give much notice, leaving the same day. Billman…

A new commissioner was sworn in at the Idyllwild Fire Protection District (IFPD) July board meeting. Jerry Buchanan resigned earlier in July to spend more time with his family, leaving a board vacancy. Only one person, Dennis Fogle, submitted a resume and cover letter by the deadline. He was unanimously approved by the board.  Fogle…

By Woody HendersonMCFSC board member Mountain Communities Fire Safe Council (MCFSC) secures grants that it applies to fire abatement projects on mountain homeowner properties. We also help educate our community regarding fire safety issues. MCFSC meets once a month. Highlights from the November meeting MCFSC is hosting a public education event where it will screen…

The Idyllwild Fire Department’s Finance Committee reviewed the proposed fiscal year 2016-17 budget and moved it to the full commission with some minor changes. The new budget totals slightly more than $2 million in both revenues and expenses. Revenues are projected to be $7,500 more than total expenses. For the current year, budget totals are…