With the canceling of the "O&C Funds" (Federal payments for public land that can't be used to collect taxes, generate revenue, etc.), many rural counties are already broke. Thriving timber and logging operations used to generate money in the communities -- but no longer. A lawsuit can't tap into what doesn't exist.

Being short on money and short on staff makes it a requirement to rely on volunteers, especially for search and rescue. Without them I doubt most places would even have a search and rescue team. I agree with you though, taxes should be spent wisely. But in rural areas we'll never see a fully-paid SAR team. There just isn't enough overhead.

I respectfully disagree as far as punishing the taxpayers of the county -- that isn't the answer. Holding individuals accountable for their actions is; and that includes everyone involved, both the Kim family (poor decisions) and the authorities (poor communication and/or coordination).