Frio County ESD 1

Liberty County ESD #2 Expands Staffed Service Hours

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 15:06:15 GMT

Liberty County ESD #2 Expands Staffed Service Hours

Saturday staffing (top): Kendryck Parrish , Volunteer Firefighter; (middle) Eric Nolin , Firefighter/EMT-Paramedic; and (on ground) Cole Hudspeth , Certified Firefighter/EMT-B. The crew is shown here conducting hose training exercises while preparing for fire response. ��

The Liberty County Emergency Services District (ESD) #2 Board has voted to expand the hours that paid firefighters are on duty. This step is part of a long-term plan to increase staffing as funding allows. The district’s ultimate goal is to provide paid firefighter coverage 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The Board takes its responsibility to taxpayers seriously and works to use all tax dollars wisely for the benefit of the district and its residents. Fire departments require costly equipment and proper facilities to house that equipment, but these investments are essential so firefighters—both paid and volunteer—can do their jobs safely and effectively. After those necessary expenses, the remaining funds determine how much paid staffing the district can support.

After reviewing the district’s finances, the Board decided the time was right to expand paid staffing. ESD #2 will now have two firefighters on duty working 10-hour shifts, six days a week. This increased coverage improves protection for the community and provides some relief for the volunteer firefighters who continue to provide round-the-clock fire and rescue service.

ESD #2 is proud of its dedicated volunteer firefighters, who remain a vital part of the department and the service it provides to the community.

When firefighters are on duty, they are not simply waiting for calls. Their daily work includes maintaining equipment, ensuring the station is ready for emergencies, and taking part in regular training to keep their skills sharp.

The firefighters and volunteers of ESD #2 take great pride in serving the communities of Hull, Daisetta, and Raywood. The Board also continues to explore opportunities to expand the district in the future, which could help reach the goal of full 24/7 staffed coverage sooner.

Residents can take comfort in knowing that trained firefighters and volunteers are always ready to respond when emergencies occur. ��

Expanded Staff Service Hours

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 14:54:49 GMT

Liberty County ESD #2 Expands Staffed Service Hours

ESD #2 is proud of its dedicated volunteer firefighters, who remain a vital part of the department and the service it provides to the community.

Residents can take comfort in knowing that trained firefighters and volunteers are always ready to respond when emergencies occur. ��

Liberty County ESD #2 Commissioners Reappointed

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 15:04:53 GMT

Liberty County ESD #2 Commissioners Reappointed, Take Oath of Office

Emergency Service Districts (ESDs) in Texas are established under Chapter 775 of the Texas Health and Safety Code. These districts play a vital role in providing fire protection, rescue services, and emergency response to communities across the state.

Across Texas, there are 274 Emergency Service Districts. In most counties, ESD Commissioners—often referred to as Fire Commissioners—are appointed by the County Commissioners Court. Only two districts in the state, located in Harris and Orange Counties, elect their commissioners by popular vote.

Commissioners serve two-year terms. Upon reappointment, each commissioner is required to take the Oath of Office and sign a Statement of Non-Conflict for each new term. In addition, Chapter 775 mandates that commissioners’ complete specific educational requirements to ensure they are well prepared to oversee district operations and finances.

This year, three commissioners of Liberty County ESD #2 were reappointed by the Liberty County Commissioners Court and completed all required steps for their new term. Pictured from left to right are Clayton Nugent, Fred Lemond Jr., and Charles Kaemmerling, each reappointed to continue their service. At far right is the Honorable Jimmy Belt, Justice of the Peace for Liberty County, administering the Oath of Office.

Although Chapter 775 provides that commissioners may receive compensation for their service beyond required educational training, the commissioners of Liberty County ESD #2 serve without pay. They volunteer their time and leadership for the betterment of the community in which they live and work.

Liberty County ESD #2 remains financially sound and well equipped. The district operates outstanding fire stations, maintains modern fire apparatus, and is supported by dedicated part-time staff and volunteers who provide fire suppression, safety, and rescue services throughout the district.

Looking ahead, Liberty County ESD #2 remains committed to responsible growth and has the ambition to expand its services and service areas as permitted under Texas law, continuing its mission to protect lives and property for the citizens it serves.

LCESD2 Attends SAFE-D

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 15:27:38 GMT

Liberty County ESD #2 Commissioners Attend Statewide Safe-D Conference

Four Fire Commissioners from Liberty County Emergency Services District #2 (LC ESD #2) recently attended the annual Safe-D Conference, held January 28 through January 31 at the San Antonio Convention Center. The Safe-D Conference is the Texas statewide conference for Emergency Services Districts (ESDs), bringing together ESD officials from across the state for education, training, and collaboration.

The conference offers a wide range of educational courses, including some that are required by the State of Texas in order to serve as a Fire Commissioner. Additional courses focus on best practices for ESD governance, operational oversight, and long-term planning. While ESDs are regulated by the State of Texas under the Health and Safety Code, Section 775 of the Texas Statutes, it is often said that of the state’s 247 ESDs, “when you have seen one ESD, you have seen only one,” emphasizing that each district is unique in its needs and operations.

Those attending the conference, pictured left to right, were LC ESD #2 Board President Fred Lemond Jr., Vice President Charles Kaemmerling, Treasurer Fred Freeman, and Equipment Officer Hec Ethridge. Each commissioner participated in courses specific to their individual board responsibilities, as well as sessions covering the general duties and expectations of Fire Commissioners serving in the State of Texas.

Among the most beneficial courses were those addressing strategic planning, sound budgetary practices, and the legal requirements governing ESDs and their commissioners. These sessions provided valuable insight into maintaining compliance while improving efficiency and service delivery.

Liberty County ESD #2 continues to work toward providing the best possible fire protection and emergency services to the district while strengthening compliance with all applicable rules and regulations. All four commissioners agreed the conference was highly beneficial and that the knowledge gained will positively impact the practices and operations of Liberty County ESD #2 moving forward.

Getting Ready for the Winter Storm

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 19:30:17 GMT

HDR Fire and Rescue Prepare for Fern

Pictured left to right Captain Nick Bourdoumis, Kendrick Parrish and Turner Hart of the HDR Fire and Rescue winterizing equipment in anticipation of winter storm Fern.

HDR Fire and Rescue Increases Staffing Ahead of Winter Storm Fern

Hull Daisetta Raywood Fire and Rescue (HDR Fire and Rescue), supported by Liberty County Emergency Service District #2, has increased on-duty staffing in anticipation of Winter Storm Fern, as named by the Weather Channel. The decision was made to ensure readiness and continuity of fire and emergency medical services during what is expected to be a period of hazardous weather conditions.

Under normal operations, HDR Fire and Rescue staffs the station during weekdays to maintain readiness while most regular volunteers are at their full-time jobs. Volunteer firefighters then provide coverage during evenings, overnight hours, and on weekends. However, with Winter Storm Fern forecast to impact the area, the likelihood of increased emergency calls is expected to rise significantly.

Another important factor considered was the difficulty volunteers may face responding to the station during inclement weather, including icy roads and unsafe driving conditions. While HDR Fire and Rescue is supported by a strong and dedicated group of volunteers who selflessly serve the community, leadership determined that maintaining staffed coverage during the storm was in the best interest of public safety. This approach reflects both the responsibility to residents and the fiduciary obligation to provide services within the department’s authorized scope.

HDR Fire and Rescue continues to work toward its long-term goal of providing 24-hour, seven-day-a-week service. At present, that ambition is limited by the level of tax revenue available. Even so, the department remains committed to doing everything possible to protect life and property, especially during times of elevated risk such as Winter Storm Fern.

Liberty County ESD #2 Gets New Fire Chief

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 19:24:23 GMT

Russell Reed Sworn in as Fire Chief of Liberty County ESD #2

Russell Reed was officially sworn in as Fire Chief of Liberty County Emergency Service District #2 (LC ESD #2) and the Hull Daisetta Raywood Fire and Rescue (HDR Fire and Rescue) during a recent ceremony conducted by the Honorable Judge Jimmy Belt, Justice of the Peace for Precinct #2, Liberty County.

An important and symbolic part of the ceremony included Chief Reed’s wife, Shelby Reed, holding the Bible as he took the oath of office in compliance with the Texas Constitution, Article XVI, Section 1. Observing the swearing-in in the background were Fred Lemond Jr., President of LC ESD #2, and Fred Freeman, Treasurer of LC ESD #2.

Chief Reed was appointed to the position by the LC ESD #2 Board following the resignation of Chief J.T. Smith, who served HDR Fire and Rescue with distinction for many years and accumulated a total of 18 years of service with the department. The Board expressed its deep gratitude to Chief Smith for his dedication and leadership and wished him well as he steps away from the role of a well-deserved rest. Chief Smith has committed to continuing to serve HDR Fire and Rescue as a volunteer, where his experience and expertise remain highly valued.

Also, in attendance but not pictured were LC ESD #2 Board members Hec Ethridge, Clayton Nugent, and Charles Kaemmerling.

Chief Reed was born in Pensacola, Florida, and moved with his family to Cleveland, Texas, at the age of 13. It was during this time, while watching his uncle serve as Fire Chief of North Liberty County, that his enthusiasm for firefighting was sparked. He graduated from Tarkington High School in 2007 and has since completed the required training and credentialing necessary to qualify for the position of Fire Chief.

Chief Reed and his wife Shelby reside in Daisetta, Texas, with their three daughters. He most recently served as Assistant Fire Chief of HDR Fire and Rescue and has worked extensively with neighboring fire departments and emergency service districts throughout the region.

The LC ESD #2 Board expressed confidence that Chief Reed brings fresh ideas, strong leadership, and renewed enthusiasm at a pivotal time in the district’s continued development. Constituents of Emergency Service District #2 can be assured that the Board remains committed to providing the highest level of fire and emergency services possible with the funds entrusted to it by the community.

Liberty County ESD #2 Participates in 2025 Daisetta Emergency Response Drill at Exxon-Mobil Facility

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 20:25:27 GMT

Liberty County Emergency Services District #2 (ESD #2 ) took part in a pivotal emergency response exercise held in 2025 at the Exxon-Mobil facility in Daisetta, Texas. The event was organized as a tabletop drill simulating emergency operations for the region’s key industrial site. This exercise underscored the commitment of local authorities and industry leaders to preparedness and coordinated response in case of disasters.

Coordinated Response with Regional Partners

The tabletop drill brought together various agencies and organizations to simulate a multi-faceted emergency scenario. In addition to ESD #2 , participants included:

City of Daisetta officials
Liberty County Sheriff’s Office personnel
Local EMS (Emergency Medical Services) representatives
Exxon Mobil Daisetta employees (a team of 25 staff)
Exxon Mobil Beaumont facility representatives
Exxon Mobil Fire Response Team from Beaumont

This collaboration fostered open communication and established best practices for potential emergencies involving industrial and community infrastructure.

Leadership and Fire Department Representation

ESD #2 was represented at the drill by key members of their department, including:

Fire Chief JT Smith
Ryan Taylor, Firefighter
Ethan Tindol, Firefighter
Nick Bourdoumis, Firefighter

The team showcased two major apparatus from their fire department, demonstrating their operational readiness and commitment to protecting Daisetta and nearby communities.

Photo opportunities featured Fire Chief JT Smith, Ryan Taylor, Ethan Tindol, Nick Bourdoumis, and the two ESD #2 apparatus, highlighting the district’s resources and personnel on-site for the drill.

Industry Support and Community Engagement

After the successful completion of the emergency response exercise, Exxon Mobil provided lunch for all drill participants—fostering camaraderie and underscoring the importance of ongoing partnership between industry and local emergency services.

Through exercises like these, Liberty County ESD #2 reinforces their mission to safeguard residents, businesses, and visitors, ensuring that emergency procedures are practiced, refined, and ready for any circumstance. The proactive approach taken at the Exxon-Mobil Daisetta facility exemplifies community resilience and the value of cooperation among public agencies and private enterprises.

HULL-DAISETTA-RAYWOOD FIRE & RESCUE: A SMALL DEPARTMENT WITH A BIG HEART

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 20:58:40 GMT

The Hull-Daisetta-Raywood Fire & Rescue Department (HDR F&R) proudly serves the residents of Liberty County Emergency Service District #2, covering the Hull, Daisetta, and Raywood communities.

Led by a dedicated full-time fire chief and supported by two paid firefighters on duty Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., HDR F&R relies on a strong network of volunteer firefighters to provide around-the-clock protection for the community. These volunteers step up evenings, nights, and weekends—often balancing their service with other full-time jobs—to ensure that help is always on the way when it is needed most.

Many of the department’s members are certified firefighters or are currently pursuing certification. Several also serve with other fire departments across Southeast Texas, bringing valuable experience and professionalism to HDR F&R. Despite limited funding, the department continues to provide top-quality emergency response through a mix of paid staff and passionate volunteers.

The Liberty County ESD #2 continues to work toward improving pay scales, benefits, and staffing levels as resources allow. In the meantime, HDR F&R maximizes every dollar by maintaining well-equipped, reliable apparatus ready for any call—whether it is a grass fire, motor vehicle accident, or a large structure fire.

Beyond its own service area, HDR F&R also responds to mutual aid requests from neighboring departments. Recent examples include providing tanker truck and personnel to assist with a major business fire in the City of Liberty, as well as a late-night house fire in a nearby district.

With a blend of professional skill, community commitment, and teamwork, the Hull-Daisetta-Raywood Fire & Rescue Department stands as a proud example of what local dedication can achieve—protecting lives and property across Liberty County, one call at a time.

LIBERTY COUNTY ESD #2 TO LAUNCH NEW WEBSITE

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 14:19:31 GMT

Liberty County ESD #2 is launching a new website. It is required by the State of Texas that all taxing entities in the State maintain a website and must have certain items on that website. Those needs of the ESD #2 had been poorly served and were not meeting all of the requirements of the State.

To remedy this, ESD #2 has contracted with a firm Clicktunity to assist with website production and maintenance to achieve compliance and a website that informs our district constituents. To display our resources, expertise and provide a place to interact with the use of our Facebook site keep our public aware and engaged on a personal level.

It is taking a lot of work to startup a new website wanting to achieve and maintain compliance with the State. The website itself once launched will be constantly updated and expanded to include information important to our citizens. Agendas and minutes to our meeting will be updated each month. Information about the district financials and budgets are posted in an effort to maintain transparency so all can be comfortable with where their tax dollars are being spent.

Stay tuned as the site will take some time to fully develop. Our hope when completed and maintained that our public may be better informed about the LC ESD #2.

LIBERTY COUNTY ESD #2 NAMES LOBBY TO HONOR RETA AND JOHNNY SLACK

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 14:03:32 GMT

The ESD #2 honored Reta and Johnny Slack during our scheduled Family Appreciation night at the Fire Station. Seen here is Fred Lemond, President of the LC ESD #2 presenting the plaque that reads "Welcome to Liberty County Emergency Service District #2, You Have Entered the Reta & Johnny Slack Lobby, Named in honor of their years of service and dedication, May 29, 2025".

Also pictured is Coby Trent Elliot who gave a devotional using Scriptures about service as he so well described Reta and Johnny as they have given to our Communities. As he led in prayer, pictured also are Clayton Nugent, Hec Ethridge and Fred Freeman (out of frame) all ESD Board members along with Charles Kaemmerling taking pictures and not shown an overflow room full of other guests.