State Representative Gina Johnsen (R-Portland) this week presented several local funding requests during House Appropriations hearings to strengthen public safety and emergency services across the region.

On Monday, Johnsen presented three projects focused on local fire protection and emergency medical services.

A $1.2 million request for Ronald Township would support construction of a combined Township Community Center and Fire Station to replace aging facilities. Ronald Township Trustee Kathryn Ainsworth testified on the need for improved space for both volunteer firefighters and community use.

Johnsen also presented a $2 million request for Odessa Township to build a new fire station to replace the current 1978 facility. Odessa Township officials and fire department leadership testified on the importance of modern facilities to support firefighter safety and reliable emergency response.

A third request would provide $980,000 to support the Portland Area Ambulance partnership, which delivers emergency medical services to Portland and surrounding communities. Local EMS leadership and city representatives testified about the importance of dependable ambulance services in rural areas.

On Wednesday, Johnsen presented a $5 million request for Barry County to help construct a new public safety facility that would house the Sheriff’s Department, a modern county jail, and the county’s Emergency Operations Center. Barry County Commission Chair David Jackson testified on the need to replace the county’s aging facilities.

“Our first responders work every day to keep our communities safe,” Johnsen said. “It is our responsibility to ensure they have the tools and facilities they need to do their jobs.”

Photo caption: State Rep. Gina Johnsen presents a funding request before the House Labor and Economic Opportunity Appropriations Subcommittee for a new Odessa Township fire station, joined by Odessa Township Treasurer Sharon Rohrbacher, Trustee Allan Baron, and Fire Chief Chad Perkins.