Honoring the Legacy of the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District
September 30, 2025 | Member Submitted
Originally published in IVCBA Magazine LIVE.WORK.PLAY. Summer 2025, Written by Kristie Wells
As the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) enters a new chapter, we pause to honor the dedicated individuals who have built the district’s strong foundation. For decades, these local heroes have not only answered the call during emergencies but have also shaped our community’s safety, education, and outreach efforts. As several key members retire, we take a moment to thank them for their lasting impact.
One of the most impactful figures in the district’s history is Tia Rancourt, retiring after nearly 30 years of service. Tia began as a volunteer firefighter, later becoming the district’s first Public Information Officer (PIO) in 2000. She revolutionized public outreach and community engagement, most notably through the creation of the 4th of July Community Pancake Breakfast, a tradition that has brought local heroes and residents together for years. Tia’s leadership in connecting the district with the community leaves a lasting legacy that will endure long after her retirement.
In addition to Tia, Captain Scott Woodcock and Captain Monte Santos have dedicated many years to the NLTFPD. Captain Santos retired on March 31, 2025, after 16 years with the district. He started his career with the Slide Mountain Hand Crew in 1999 before joining the NLTFPD full-time in 2009. Promoted to Captain in 2016, Monte’s unwavering dedication and hard work have left a significant mark on the district and community.
Captain Scott Woodcock’s career began in 1994 as a part-time Auxiliary Firefighter, and he was hired full-time in 2001. Over the years, Scott has become a trusted leader in the department, earning a promotion to Captain in 2016. After 31 years of service, Scott will retire in 2025. His commitment, including commuting from Arizona for over two decades, has demonstrated a level of sacrifice and dedication that will be remembered by all who worked alongside him.
Looking ahead, the future of the NLTFPD remains strong. At the helm is Fire Chief Ryan Sommers, a native of Incline Village who joined the department in 1995 and became Fire Chief in 2016. Chief Sommers’ steady leadership has guided the district through significant growth and change, ensuring it remains ready to respond to any emergency. His leadership, alongside Assistant Fire Chief Russ Barnum, Fuels Division Chief Isaac Powning, Fire Marshal John James, and Chief Financial/People Officer Jackie Signorelli, ensures the district remains at the forefront of fire safety, emergency response, and community protection.
With this dedicated team, the district is well-positioned to meet future challenges. The focus on innovation, training, and community partnerships will continue to drive the district’s mission forward, ensuring it remains a trusted resource for fire protection, emergency response, and public education.
As we honor the legacies of Tia, Scott, Monte, and all those who have served, we extend our deepest gratitude to them. Their contributions have had a profound impact on the district and the community. As they transition to the next phase of their lives, we are reminded of the incredible dedication they have shown.
Please join us in expressing our heartfelt thanks to these local heroes for their years of hard work, passion, and unwavering commitment to the North Lake Tahoe community.