Walla Walla County Fire District No. 5 asks voters to raise fire levy

By on Monday, July 22nd, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

BURBANK – Walla Walla County Fire District No. 5 in Burbank will ask voters again to approve raising the fire levy rate to fund fire protection and emergency medical services.

On the Aug. 6 primary election ballot, voters will consider increasing the fire levy rate from $1.22 to $1.38 per $1,000 assessed value for assessment in 2024 and collection in 2025. The dollar amount of the levy collected in 2025 shall be used to calculate the levy limit in subsequent years.

If approved, Fire Chief Mike Wickstrom said the increase would help the district create more sleeping quarters for staff and volunteers, and increase space for fire apparatus.

“With the anticipated growth for the Burbank area coming soon, this lift would be a huge help in navigating the anticipated growth and increased run volume,” Wickstrom said.

The district’s last attempt in November to raise the levy failed by 22 votes.