Jackson Fire District #2 is urging residents to participate in a fire budget referendum scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026, as the district confronts what officials describe as a “perfect storm” of rapid population growth, rising emergency call volume, and a nationwide shortage of volunteer firefighters.
District officials say the vote comes at a pivotal moment. In 2025, Fire District #2 responded to 1,575 calls for service—an increase of 13 percent compared with the previous year. To meet growing demand, the district implemented several major operational changes over the past year.
On July 13, the district began providing 24/7/365 coverage with full-time career firefighters, marking the first time in township history that round-the-clock fire protection has been staffed by career personnel. As of December 1, the district also expanded EMS First Responder coverage to operate 24 hours a day, aiming to deliver faster life-saving medical care.
In addition, Fire District #2 has integrated its operations with Fire District No. 3 through the First Due software system, which officials say helps streamline emergency response, equipment maintenance, and reporting.
District leaders say approval of the 2026 budget is essential to sustaining these expanded services and maintaining professional fire and medical protection as local demand continues to rise.
“Our firefighters are responding to more calls than ever before,” said Scott Rauch, Fire District #2 administrator. “This budget allows us to continue providing the 24-hour protection our residents deserve. We are asking the community to help us serve them at the highest possible level.”
Residents may vote either in person or by mail.
In-person voting will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Jackson Fire Station #56, located at 135 Miller Road in Jackson.
Vote-by-mail ballots must be requested by February 8 through the Ocean County Clerk’s office. Mail-in ballots must be postmarked by February 15 and received by February 17 to be counted.
Additional information about the proposed budget is available from the district. Residents with specific questions may contact Administrator Scott Rauch at 732-363-2595 or by email at srauch@firedistrict2.org.