The sale of capital bonds are the method used to finance high cost firefighting equipment, facility construction and renovations. The SFD’s current 20-year bond retires in 2016. The proposed 10-year replacement bond will be used to finance much needed equipment and construction expenditures that were deferred in order to maintain service levels during the recession.
For example, the SFD’s ladder truck is 21 years old, well beyond its life cycle of 15 years. Station 63 is 45 years old and does not meet current or future needs. Three front line fire engines, three aid cars, and SCBA breathing apparatus for our firefighters also need to be replaced over the next few years.
The bond is also cost effective. Under the expiring 20-year bond the owner of a $300,000 home has been paying $54 per year. The new 10-year bond will reduce the cost to $48 per year.
Passing this bond, in conjunction with the proposed fire benefit charge, will provide the SFD with the facilities, equipment and tools necessary to continue providing the citizens of Shoreline a high level of service. This is also likely the last bond that we will ever need. We urge you to vote yes.
Submitted by: Allen Alston and Brett Defenbaugh, alston12@comcast.net
