Avenal Fire Department begins taking over city fire response after county contract ends

Updated 19 minutes ago
AVENAL, Calif. (KFSN) -- A transition is underway in Kings County as the Avenal Fire Department begins assuming responsibility for fire and emergency response within city limits.

City crews are now responding to and taking primary responsibility for single-engine fire and emergency incidents that occur within Avenal's incorporated boundaries.

Avenal City Fire Chief John Chamberlin said that during this initial transition period, the city will continue coordinating with the Kings County Fire Department, dispatch partners and regional mutual aid agencies to ensure continuity of service.

Beginning June 11, the Avenal Fire Department will assume full operational responsibility for municipal fire services within the city.

The change follows a March decision by the Kings County Board of Supervisors, which voted unanimously to end its fire services contract with Avenal after a dispute over a boxing event at the Avenal Community Center.

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