A “Yes” vote on annexation into the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority is a vote to strengthen fire and emergency medical services for the residents of Black Diamond, both now and in the future. As our community continues to grow, so does the demand for emergency response, wildfire preparedness, rescue services, and advanced medical care.

Joining Puget Sound Fire would provide Black Diamond with access to a larger regional system that already serves surrounding communities with 24/7 staffing, experienced firefighters and paramedics, specialized equipment, and expanded emergency resources. This regional model helps ensure residents receive fast, reliable service when emergencies happen.

Annexation also provides a more stable and predictable funding structure that helps maintain service levels while planning for future needs. Rather than relying on a smaller standalone system with limited resources, Black Diamond would become part of an established regional authority built to support long-term public safety.

This partnership is about protecting residents, supporting first responders, and making sure our city has the resources needed to respond quickly and effectively during emergencies. A regional approach allows communities to work together, share resources, and provide a higher level of service for the people who depend on it most.

Statement submitted by: Jonathan Englund, blackdiamondupdates@gmail.com

This proposition creates a new tax that will raise costs for homeowners and local businesses. In Black Diamond, the average home price is about $750,000. A 2,800-square-foot home would pay about $1,083 each year to start, and this amount could go up every year based on what the new fire authority decides.

The city has said it will keep the money it already collects for fire and emergency services and use it for other things. This means taxpayers would pay twice for services we already fund. There are better options that would cost less, and the city should use the money we already pay before asking for more.

Local businesses will have to pay much higher taxes. Some may raise their prices to cover the cost, and others may decide to leave Black Diamond. This would hurt families and our whole community.

As a former fire commissioner and career firefighters who live in Black Diamond, we believe this new tax is not the best choice for our community. Voting No tells the city of Black Diamond to create a fair and realistic solution. Vote No!

Statement submitted by: Michael Carlin, Brian McGee

While concerns about cost are understandable, this decision is also about making sure Black Diamond has reliable fire and emergency medical services as our community grows. Supporters believe joining a larger regional fire authority provides stronger emergency response resources and long-term stability.

This is not just about what’s the cheapest solution, it’s about speed and quality of services. Regional coordination can improve response capabilities, preparedness, and access to the resources we need during emergencies.

Statement submitted by: Jonathan Englund, blackdiamondupdates@gmail.com

A “No Vote” isn’t against fire services, it’s against paying twice! This proposition would replace our current fire department and add an expensive new tax, while the city keeps the money we already pay.

Black Diamond already has 24/7 professional firefighters and all emergency services the Pro side lists. Annexation will not make response times faster. The new department will substantially increase costs and move resources further away. We need a better plan. Vote No!

Statement submitted by: Michael Carlin, Brian McGee

Download the full text of the resolution

Simple majority of the jurisdiction proposed to be annexed (RCW 52.26.300(4)(a))

For questions about this measure, contact: Kevin O’Neill, City Administrator, (360) 469-9789, koneill@blackdiamondwa.gov