This month, we're introducing a few of the community members who serve in that role. While their backgrounds may differ, they share a common commitment to supporting an organization that plays a vital role in protecting the people, families, and businesses of Ripon.

Bryce Perkins has spent nearly four decades investing in the Ripon community through agriculture, coaching, business, and public service. He and his wife, Marcia, moved to Ripon in 1987 and operate a 10-acre olive ranch on Olive Avenue.

Bryce is a farmer, serves as Senior Advisor for Tuff Boy Trailers, and jokingly refers to his nearly 25 years as coach of the Ripon High School girls' varsity soccer team as his "night job." One of the most rewarding parts of his life, coaching has allowed him to mentor generations of student-athletes and celebrate their success both on and off 

the field.

Perkins joined the Fire District Board nearly 20 years ago after being approached by former Fire Chief Bitters.

"I've enjoyed seeing firsthand how dedicated and hardworking everyone is, from the battalion chiefs to the firefighters," he said. "The pride they take in serving this community is unmatched."

Born and raised in Ripon, Mark Ziesel owns and operates a local cut flower farm. He and his wife, Andrea, are raising two daughters and enjoy spending time outdoors, traveling, and supporting local businesses.

Mark previously served as a volunteer firefighter with the Ripon Consolidated Fire District for 10 years, an experience that inspired his continued commitment to public service. "This is where I live, where I am raising my family, and where I run my business," he said. "Serving on the Board is my way of continuing to give back to a community that means so much to me."

Mark hopes residents understand the importance of supporting the district's staffing and resource needs so it can continue providing the level of service the community expects.

Lynis Chaffey has built a career centered on leadership, service, and community involvement. Her professional background includes education, healthcare administration, fundraising, and more than 20 years in real estate.

Lynis and her husband, Rich, have called Ripon home for the past 10 years and will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in 2027. They have two sons in federal law enforcement and two teenage granddaughters.

The outgoing President of Ripon Rotary, Lynis joined the Fire District Board because she believes in being part of the solution and helping residents better understand the district's role in protecting the community.

Sheri Coburn has spent a lifetime serving others through healthcare, education, and community leadership. Recently retired from the San Joaquin County Office of Education, she continues to teach part-time in the CSU Stanislaus School of Nursing.

Her children were raised in Ripon, and she is eagerly anticipating the arrival of two grandchildren. In her free time, she enjoys gardening and walking her three French bulldogs.

Sheri's decision to serve on the Fire District Board was deeply personal. During her late husband Pete's battle with cancer, she experienced firsthand the importance of emergency response services when a fall at home left him in severe pain and in need of immediate assistance.

"When the firefighters arrived and helped us, I was incredibly grateful," she said. "That experience reinforced just how important emergency services are to our community." Sheri hopes residents continue learning about the district and the important role it plays in keeping Ripon safe.