Letter to the publisher: Get facts about the annexation for the regional fire brigade

Dear editor, editor,

As a long-standing and retired firefighter of Edmonds/Fire District 1 (SSCFR), I would like to ensure that our community has reliable, well-financed fire and emergency services. Our city is currently laying down with South County Fire, but this financing depends on the general budget of the city and competes with other essential services. The city currently has considerable inferiority, and without a yes, any city service could be reduced.

By coordinating yes via proposition 1 for annexion in the South Snohomish County Fire and Rescue Regional Fire Authority (RFA), we ensure a stable, committed source of financing for fire and emergency services. Instead of relying on uncertain city budgets, these critical services would be financed by an RFA tax and a performance fee to ensure predictable, long-term financial support. This no longer means worries whether future deficits in the city budget will affect the response times or the staff of the firefighter.

It is very important that all of Edmonds voters are correct on this topic. Find out, get the facts and do not have misinformations and distortions of the facts. Websites with important information on this topic are: www.nwciviccircle.org/edmonds-rfa, www.southsnofire.org and edwafirefuture.info.

We prioritize security and stability for Edmonds. Vote with Prop 1 to get into the SSCFR RFA to secure permanent, reliable financing for emergency services.

Pat Hepler
Edmonds