Astra Enterprise Park Presents $50,000 Donation to Northwest Consolidated Fire District

Astra Enterprise Park recently presented a $50,000 donation to Northwest Consolidated Fire District, supporting training and equipment for our first responders who serve De Soto and the surrounding community as the area continues to experience significant growth and development.

During the check presentation, Northwest Consolidated Fire District Board Chairman Doug Bedford reflected on his family's long history in De Soto and the transformation he has witnessed in the community.

Bedford shared a story similar to many in the area, that his grandparents moved to De Soto for jobs at the former Sunflower Army Ammunition Plant and that he was born here and has continued to call De Soto home. Over the years, he has watched the former ammunition plant property go through significant changes, including its decommissioning and the extensive cleanup and redevelopment process that followed.

As the property enters its next chapter, Bedford emphasized communication and collaboration has been the hallmark of the partnership with Astra for over 20 years. A partnership not only with the city and developers, but also with residents, businesses, law enforcement and first responders.

He also highlighted the impact a contribution like Astra's can have on the Fire District. The $50,000 donation will help support needs including training, staffing, and lifesaving equipment, ultimately benefiting not only new development but the community as a whole.

Northwest Consolidated Fire District Chief Todd Maxton spoke about how needs have grown as development has accelerated in the area. He expressed the Fire District's appreciation for Astra's contribution and the additional resources it will provide.

Dan Jensen with Astra also emphasized the importance of working together as development moves forward, recognizing that Astra cannot do it alone and that first responders and the broader community are important partners.

The contribution represents an investment beyond the boundaries of Astra Enterprise Park. By helping strengthen the resources available to Northwest Consolidated Fire District, the donation supports the men and women who respond when businesses, residents and visitors throughout the community need them.