Hello, fellow San Juan islanders.

We are concerned about the results of the upcoming vote to support the fire service on San Juan Island. In our more than 30 years of service in the islands’ fire departments, we have had many opportunities to see our community benefit by having well equipped and well trained emergency services. We want to take this opportunity to strongly support the fire levy on November 5.

We have seen multiple structure and wildland fires which could have been catastrophic had they not been caught and extinguished quickly by up to date equipment and trained personnel. We have personally observed the benefits of having community members, children and adults alike, trained in appropriate behavior in the prevention of and response to emergencies.

Having a well funded fire department with good equipment is an essential ingredient in providing this service to the community. There has not been an increase in the levy for over 60 years!

Please vote yes on the Fire Levy. For more details, go to www.sjifire.org and click on levy renewal FAQ.

Peter and Susan Risser,

San Juan Island