San Juan Fire District 3 is an essential emergency service provider to San Juan Island and 10 outer islands. In addition to structure and wildland fire protection, it provides vehicle rescue, and hazardous materials response, as well the only fire boat in the county for fire response, search and rescue, and medical transport. Some of its members are EMS trained and respond to assist island EMS when requested. The district also assists local law enforcement for search and rescue as requested. The district has an active citizen outreach component concentrating on safety and fire prevention in the home and for wildland fires.

Fire District 3 will be requesting to restore the levy to $0.70 dollars per $1000 assessed value from the current $0.30. The district hasn’t requested a lid lift levy for over 60 years. While the District has been getting an automatic 1% increase each year, inflation has been averaging 3.2% per year for the last 20 years, putting finances in a serious state. This fiscal year required staff and benefit reductions. Next year will be worse without approval by the voters of the levy.

Without approval by the voters, there will be a decreased ability to respond to fires and other emergencies. This increases the risk to property and life, including the volunteers who are our friends and neighbors. A levy lid lift is crucial to allow the district to safely serve the public’s needs. Please vote yes on the fire levy.

John McDowell

San Juan Island