We want our community to understand how emergency services are funded.
Daily emergency operations are funded by two voter-approved property tax levies with a combined total of $2 per $1,000 of assessed property value ($1.50 for fire suppression; $0.50 for EMS). Over time, the levy rates fall as property values rise to limit the fire district to roughly the same amount of revenue per year plus a one percent increase. Last year, voters approved renewing the EMS levy at $0.50/$1,000. This funding is critical to maintain service levels due to higher call volumes and increasing costs. We look forward to reporting back to you on the improvements we are making with your tax dollars.
Our community requires more firefighters, but there’s no place to put them.
Call volumes continue to increase, including multiple emergency calls that come in at the same time. We recently completed a study, which identifies the need for additional personnel to meet the National Fire Protection Association standards. This is important for public safety and the safety of our firefighters who respond. We are planning for these positions to meet national safety standards, but our facilities are inadequate to hold them. Some stations do not meet current seismic codes, and are at risk of collapsing in an earthquake. Stations also lack effective diesel exhaust removal systems and decontamination areas to reduce firefighter exposure to cancer-causing carcinogens and infectious diseases.
Adequate facilities are important to the health and safety of our community and its firefighters.
The Fire District pays for its capital needs, such as fire stations, emergency apparatus and equipment, through voter-approved bonds. These items are too expensive to fund through our operating levies without cutting emergency service levels. Two years ago, voters almost approved a bond for to renovate or replace three stations. These projects are necessary to add space for personnel, improve public safety, and provide a healthier working environment for firefighters.
