09/29/2026
About 20 neighbors joined Lewis County Fire District #9 on Monday, September 28, for an open house highlighting two years of progress: greater financial transparency, upgraded equipment, and a renewed commitment to serving our community.
There were introductions to celebrate, too. Brian West of Elkamp here in Mineral and Emily Hunt, who works at Mount Rainier, have both earned their EMT certifications!
The district also introduced its new officers:
• EMS Captain Brian West
• Fire Captain Kerry Moore of Mineral’s Lavender Passion Flower Farm
• Fire Lieutenant Jesse Milbrath
Interim Fire Chief Bill Reynolds has provided steady leadership following the previous chief’s unexpected retirement two years ago. Alongside his responsibilities leading Fire District #4 in Morton, he comes to Mineral when needed and for weekly training. Training recently moved to Mondays at 6 p.m. to better accommodate our volunteers’ schedules.
Our call volume is down considerably this year. But the need for committed volunteers remains.
You don’t have to fight fires to help your fire district. We need people who can assist with administration, photography, social media, maintenance, fundraising, grants, events, cooking, traffic control, and fire police duties. Many support roles don’t require the physical strength or endurance of firefighting. They do require commitment. For those interested in becoming firefighters, the district provides training.
And you’ll soon recognize our volunteers by their bright red shirts and new logo. Inside the traditional fire-service cross are Mount Rainier, evergreens, a lake reflection, Bigfoot, and a flying saucer—a little local character representing the place we serve.
Thank you to everyone who came, and to the volunteers who continue showing up for Mineral. Interested in helping? Contact Lewis County Fire District #9 to learn where your skills can make a difference.
Many hands. Many skills. One mission.
