Why Microsoft’s Support for Malaga Fire Station Is a Game-Changer

As Fire Chief, I’ve seen firsthand how critical timely emergency response is to saving lives and protecting property. That’s why I’m thrilled—and deeply grateful—to share that starting September 1, the Malaga Fire Station will once again be staffed 24/7, thanks in large part to Microsoft’s extraordinary support.

For years, our department relied on volunteers to staff the Malaga station. But like many communities across the country, we’ve faced a steep decline in volunteerism. Despite our best recruitment efforts, Malaga hasn’t had a single volunteer firefighter in over a decade. From 2009 to 2022, Alcoa Corporation helped fill the gap by funding 1.5 full-time positions. When their support ended, the station went unstaffed—leaving 5,000 residents and $500 million in property value vulnerable.

The consequences were serious. Our goal is to reach 90% of homes within 4–6 minutes of a call. Without staffing, response times increased, and so did fire insurance premiums. Malaga’s fire protection rating was on the verge of increasing from a respectable 4 to a disastrous 9—making insurance unaffordable or even unavailable for many. These ratings are determined by the Washington Surveying and Rating Bureau (WSRB), an independent, not-for-profit organization that evaluates fire protection capabilities across the state. Their Protection Class (PC) system helps insurance companies assess property risk and set premiums fairly, while also guiding communities on how to improve their fire-defense infrastructure.

Then Microsoft stepped in.

When they approached us about their planned development in Malaga, we explained the risks of an unstaffed station. They didn’t hesitate. Microsoft committed to funding one-third of the staffing costs for the next three years. This isn’t about saving money for them—they’re self-insured. It’s about protecting their employees and being a responsible member of our community.

Their support means we can provide the level of service Malaga deserves. It means families can sleep a little easier. It means businesses can operate with confidence. And it means our fire department can do what we do best: respond quickly, effectively, and with the right resources.

Microsoft’s investment also reflects a deeper understanding of how data and infrastructure intersect with public safety. From early 911 dispatch notifications to mapping and communication, we rely on data to serve our community. Microsoft’s facilities help meet that demand—and now, they’re helping us meet our mission.

This partnership goes beyond mere financial support. It exemplifies how corporations can meaningfully engage with and uplift the communities they become a part of. I am proud to collaborate with Microsoft and optimistic that other companies will be inspired to follow their example.