Continue Five-Year Local Option Levy for Scappoose Fire District
Question: Shall Scappoose Fire District continue a $1.99 per $1,000 levy for another five years to fund essential medical/fire operations? This measure renews current local option taxes.
Summary: The proposed measure seeks to continue a levy of $1.99 per $1,000 of assessed property value for the Scappoose Fire District, funding essential operating expenses from 2027 to 2031. This revenue is critical for several key services, including the continuous staffing of two ambulances 24/7 including the medications and equipment that supports response operations. The funding will ensure compliance with NFPA medical testing for firefighters. Levy funds are also used to fulfill federal and OSHA personal protective equipment testing requirements and replacement. Funds will be used for annual safety inspections and maintenance for the four fire stations. Levy funds are also used to maintain NFPA and federal compliance for emergency vehicles maintenance and replacement when needed. Projected revenue from the levy is estimated to be $3,381,674 in 2027, $3,483,125 in 2028, $3,587,618 in 2029, $3,695,247 in 2030 and $3,920,287 in 2031, ensuring essential resources for community safety. The estimated tax cost is based on data from the county assessor and considers potential early payment discounts, compression, and collection rates.
Explanatory Statement: The proposed funding measure is essential for maintaining and enhancing the comprehensive emergency services provided by our fire district. This measure addresses several pressing issues our emergency response agencies face, ensuring that we can continue delivering effective care and support to residents.
Our fire district offers a wide range of services, including structure fire response, wildfire response, marine firefighting (serving 16 marinas), advanced life support ambulance services, community paramedic program, water rescue, and rope rescue. Additionally, we engage in community risk reduction activities, which encompass fire and life safety business inspections, fire extinguisher training for the community, emergency response planning and training. We also conduct reviews of sprinkler, fire alarm, and fire and life safety plans, and we provide educational STEM and college classes at the local high school, as well as fire safety education programs for schools.
Data shows that our emergency response system faces significant demands, with average monthly call volumes indicating that multiple emergency calls occur simultaneously 50% of the time. This high call volume reinforces the necessity of maintaining two ambulances available 24 hours a day, ensuring a prompt response to emergencies, regardless of when they occur.
Presently, ambulance billing revenue is declining, with our collection rate from Medicare and Medicaid averaging around 40%. This shortfall places a financial strain on our ability to provide critical services and procure the necessary medications and equipment to support our response operations. Securing the proposed funding will stabilize our finances and ensure that our emergency medical teams have the resources needed for high-quality care.
Moreover, the funding is vital for compliance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) medical testing requirements for firefighters. Adhering to these standards enhances the safety and effectiveness of our personnel, ensuring we meet rigorous expectations for emergency responders.
The levy funds will also help fulfill federal and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) personal protective equipment testing requirements. Regular testing and replacement of equipment are essential to protect our firefighters and maintain their readiness to respond safely and effectively.
Additionally, a portion of the funding will support annual safety inspections and maintenance for our four fire stations. Well-maintained facilities are crucial for operational efficiency and for providing a safe working environment for our emergency personnel.
Another vital aspect of the funding will be the maintenance and replacement of emergency vehicles in compliance with NFPA and federal standards. Ensuring that our emergency vehicles are in optimal condition is crucial for the safety of our responders and for the timely and effective delivery of services to our community.
In summary, the proposed measure is crucial for maintaining current operations and meeting the heightened demands for emergency services. It will provide the necessary funding to ensure adequate ambulance availability, support compliance with critical safety standards, fund vital equipment repairs and replacements, and maintain our facilities. By approving this measure, residents will help ensure our community receives the emergency care it deserves, safeguarding the health and safety of all citizens.
Submitted by:
Jeff Pricher, Fire Chief
Scappoose Fire District