Fire District 5’s Proposition 1 is about increasing the number of fire commissioners in the community from three people to five. District 5 has grown a lot since 1945 when it started with three commissioners. There are still three, even though most neighboring districts increased their boards years ago.
Why add fire commissioners? It’s the right thing to do. Broader public perspectives can better guide District 5 in changing times. Although the state does not require having five commissioners yet, we are fortunate that our fire department plans for the future. That’s why we have the new Public Safety Center on U.S. 2, because back when the City of Sultan forecast all the new homes off Sultan Basin Road, District 5 moved proactively to meet the growing need. As new citizens move to the area, more voices can contribute.
Does it cost more? Almost nothing. Commissioners are paid a modest honorarium for their time attending meetings. The total cost increase would be roughly $5,500 per year; not much cost for the important benefit of having broader community representation. This is not “bigger government.” No added employees, no tax increases, just the voices of two citizens to enhance local representation on a topic like community emergency services.
Please vote yes.
Steve Fox
Sultan
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