South King Fire and Rescue, serving the citizens of Greater Federal Way and Des Moines, is placing an excess levy proposition on the November 8th, 2016 ballot. This proposition will authorize the fire district to collect $2.75 million annually, at an approximate rate of $0.19 per $1,000 of assessed valuation for the first year, for a four year period covering 2017 through 2020. The proposition is a renewal at a lesser amount than the levy approved in 2012 (which was $3.5 million annually), and is presented to allow voters the opportunity to maintain current fire department services and personnel. The levy rate may decrease (below $0.19) in 2018, 2019 and 2020 if assessed values increase substantially in those years.
The fire district has lost nearly 30% of its annual revenue since 2009 due to recession and decreased property values, necessitating severe cutbacks in service levels and personnel, including elimination of public education programs, closure of one aid car and reducing another to part-time status, and the layoff of four employees. 23 positions were left vacant, including thirteen firefighters positions eliminated through attrition. The 2012 levy allowed filling key positions and re-establishing and maintaining needed service levels.
Renewal of this levy, at a lower amount than 2012, will allow the department to maintain the current level of services. Rejection would lead to additional reductions in service levels, the layoff of additional fire department personnel including possibly firefighters, potential elimination of special services such as rescue teams, and similar cutbacks.
For questions about this measure, contact: Allen D. Church, Fire Chief/Administrator, 253-946-7258, allen.church@southkingfire.org
