South King Fire (SKF) needs your support now. Economic development is driving population growth and increasing community needs. Emergency service calls have doubled in the last decade to more than 25,000 calls annually in 2023. This rising demand is surpassing what the current funding model will support. SKF has identified a stable funding model utilizing the Fire Benefit Charge (FBC) that is used by a majority of neighboring fire departments.
Not a Tax. The FBC is a fee that distributes costs by placing more responsibility on structures with higher fire risk and resource needs. Under the FBC, single-family homes generally pay less than larger structures like commercial properties.
Stable Funding. The FBC replaces an outdated funding model, heavily reliant on property taxes and subject to severe fluctuations. The FBC will stabilize funding, help meet rising demands, reduce regular property taxes, and eliminate the need for a renewed Maintenance and Operations Levy.
Support Fire. Our firefighters respond 24/7/365 to an increasing number of incidents and emergencies in our communities. Without sustainable funding, SKF would be forced to make budget cuts that will impact service levels and response times. Let’s support our firefighters and a better plan for the future. Vote Yes!
Submitted by: Ed Plumlee, Victor Pennington, Shelley Pauls, ed_plumlee@mac.com
