Snoqualmie Pass Fire and Rescue is requesting that voters approve the continuation of the existing benefit charge for six years to replace the expiring benefit charge approved by the voters in 2020.
A benefit charge is not a property tax but is a user fee designed to allocate the cost of the services provided by the District in reasonable proportion to the measurable benefit a property receives. If the benefit charge is approved the District's statutory tax authority is reduced by $.50 per thousand of assessed valuation.
The Board of Commissioners has determined that a benefit charge established in conjunction with a lower level of property taxes provides the fairest, most stable, reliable and cost effective method for financing the operations of the District and maintaining a satisfactory level of services. Property owners have a right to a hearing and to petition for adjustments to the benefit charge each year.
