Voters in the Albion Little River area will cast their ballots this November on Measure S, a proposal to increase funding for the Albion Little River Fire Protection District through a special tax.
The measure aims to replace the current $75 per parcel tax with a new $300 per parcel tax, which would include a 2% annual increase. If approved, the tax is expected to generate approximately $668,000 annually for the district, which operates five fire stations across a service area of 26 miles. The new tax would take effect at the start of the 2025-2026 property tax billing cycle, with the first installment due in December 2025.
Fire Chief Michael Rees highlighted the challenges facing the district, noting that the number of volunteer firefighters has dwindled to just 19, the lowest in a decade. "Our average turnout for firefighters on call is about four," Rees said, emphasizing that many calls are now responded to by only one or two firefighters.
The district has experienced a 300% increase in call volume since 2002, while inflation has diminished its purchasing power. Without the additional funding, Rees warned that the district may need to consolidate resources, potentially impacting services at its satellite stations.
Measure S represents the first tax increase for the fire district in ten years, following a $40 tax passed in 2002 and the $75 tax in 2014. The funds would be allocated for improving fire protection services, maintaining equipment, training personnel, and covering employee salaries.
Fifth District Supervisor Ted Williams, who represents Albion and Little River, stressed the importance of adequate fire protection for property owners' insurance options. "Communities that want to maintain the ability to get insurance need to find a way to fund it," Williams said.
For the measure to pass, it requires a two-thirds majority vote.
