Sac Metro Fire Chief Speaks at Chamber Luncheon

of the   told Carmichael residents about his agency's financial challenges on Tuesday.

Henke, who was recently , spoke at the 's monthly networking luncheon at . He also answered questions from the audience for just under 30 minutes.

During his speech, Henke gave the audience his perspective of how revenue cuts are affecting the fire department and based on the numbers it sounds like it has taken a hit.

“We are simply a property tax-driven organization,” Henke said. “We have basically dropped $21 million a year in property taxes in 24 months…the plummet continues.”

Getting more into financial woes, Henke also mentioned that it costs about $2,500 for gear for one firefighter. Sac Metro Fire has 600 members that cover 478 square miles, including Carmichael.

His message seemed to get through to the church’s senior pastor Cary Duckett.

“I think it’s just a realistic view of how things are in Sacramento,” Duckett said about Henke’s message. “How property taxes are affecting those civil servants that we have. He seemed to be on top of the issue, knowing how to deal with the revenue cuts.”

“I think they’re having to serve in very difficult times," Duckett said. They’re doing it with a positive attitude and doing it because they care about the community.”

Through all the struggles that Sac Metro Fire has had in recent years they still bring reliable service. Susan Dakuzaku said she hasn’t needed Sac Metro Fire in an emergency, but she can vouch for them.

“I had a friend, who actually lives in Carmichael and had a barbecue fire,” Dakuzaku said. “They knew (about) that fire before she did. She was taking a shower. Definitely good service.”

Despite all the troubles that Sac Metro Fire is going through, Henke closed his speech with a message directed towards Carmichael residents.

“It’s an honor and a privilege to be your fire chief,” he said. “We value this community just like we value our employees.”