To the Citizens of Snohomish County Fire District 4:
Over the past 81/2 months the staff and commissioners of Snohomish County Fire District 4 have worked on improving relationships within our organization and throughout the community. Through a citizen advisory committee we have worked hard to rebuild the trust of the citizens. Throughout this process we have continued to provide outstanding service to our community.
In the primary election, our strategy on the proposition was based on assumptions that adequate information about the department and our strategic plan were being dispensed. I sincerely apologize for our failure to adequately communicate our needs and plan with you.
Due to financial obligations (the fire district’s $329,000 share of the counties’ new radio system, increasing fuel costs, the need to replace equipment and ongoing personnel costs), the district cannot continue to provide the same level of service without an increase in funding. The Fire District commissioners, therefore, have decided to place the proposition back on the ballot for the November election.
What will happen if this proposition fails in November? There is a high likelihood that the district will have to borrow money for the new radio system. Most likely we will have fewer personnel and emergency vehicles to respond to your calls. Does this mean nobody will show up if you call 911? No. However, it may take longer for help to arrive. The total impact has yet to be determined, but a general reduction in the level of service can be expected.
We are asking for your help. As a resident of Fire District 4, we provide this service for you by way of your tax dollars. We want to hear your comments and suggestions.
Write to the Fire Chief or commissioners at P.O. Box 820, Snohomish, WA., 98291-0820
E-mail: fire@snohomishfire.org.
Call: 360-568-2141.
Visit us at 1525 Ave D, Snohomish.
We invite you to attend our commissioners meetings on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month.
Mark Collins
Fire Chief, Fire District 4
Snohomish
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