Volunteer emergency services receive limited funding

By Sarah M. Vasquez
Big Bend Now

MARFA, Texas — The word “volunteer” in the Marfa Volunteer Fire Department’s (MVFD) is just that, 17 volunteer firefighters, including Chief Gary Mitschke and Assistant Chief Gilbert Lujan.

Mitschke receives some compensation for being the Presidio County Emergency Management Coordinator and fire marshal, but the fire department runs solely on donations and the limited funds it receives from Presidio County and the city of Marfa.

The department became incorporated in the mid-1990s, meaning it is a separate entity managed by its members and board of directors. That status also helps to secure grants. The department is not technically owned by the county or the city, however they serve both political subdivisions.

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