The North Summit Fire district is facing a crisis. The current budget and resources are inadequate to address the expanding needs of the district. The previous administration was very resourceful and hands-on in their ability to make do with very little, however that was not sustainable over the long term in addressing the needs of our diverse infrastructure.
The North Summit Fire District covers roughly 420 square miles. With only one fire station covering this area it leads to response times of over 30 minutes for many locations, if those areas are even reachable with the current equipment the district has.
With an increased budget, the district will be able to staff three full-time stations, reducing the response time to 15 minutes to most North Summit Fire District residences. As well, the district has expressed interest in getting equipment that will be able to more adequately reach remote areas like Tollgate Canyon.
Nobody likes a tax increase, but this is not an issue of government overreach or an attempt to push our longtime residents out of the district. It is a matter of saving lives and brining the district up to legal standards to provide adequate services to all residents. Currently all residents are paying for limited coverage that benefits those who live in the city of Coalville the most. With the tax increase the coverage and benefits are more evenly spread through the entire district.
The Council and ACB should do their due diligence and consider other viable options. I however have failed to hear any proposals that would provide the adequate professional services that reach the legal requirements the district needs to meet.
The tax increase will be difficult for many people, however some of the largest burdens will be on those who have the privilege of owning second or even third homes and properties in our area. These better-off owners will ultimately help subsidize our benefits as full-time residents. With more and more houses being purchased as investments this tax increase can help discourage the increased amount of Airbnbs and empty housing being taken from those who want to live here full-time but are being priced out.
Those most vocal have been against this increase, however there are many residents, myself included, who support the increased lifesaving services that this will provide. In five years, I hope all residents will look back and see the progress the district is going to make and see that the tax increase was worth it.