It had good luck in the last presidential election, and then again defeating Tim Eyman's most recent kookoo plot.
The EMS levy has been approved, every six years, since 1980. It funds a big chunk of the fire department. The cost continues to be 50 cents per $1000 of home value or $50 per year per $100,000 of home value. If it's not approved, in January we will probably lose about a third of our firefighters and three to five of our 14 fire stations would have to be shut down. Also, insurance premiums would increase.
The other option if it doesn't pass, I suppose, would be to severely cut into other city budgets to keep Spokane's fire department going. That would not be good either. Studies show that people's choice to live in a city is based on public safety, quality of life and educational opportunities.
Compared to other departments in the state, Spokane's citizens get a lot of bang for their buck. We've got the busiest engine in the state and the department's call volume is huge. Here's a link that shows how Spokane's citizens' tax dollars are used compared to other cities.
Back in the 80s, there were over 80 firefighters on duty every shift. When I was hired, over ten years ago, we were pushing 70 on duty. Now we are in the 50s. And over this time, our call volume has doubled. The EMS Levy enables us to continue operating in this mode.
If you are interested, here is a link to the YES EMS website.
Thanks for listening to my shameless plug.
3 comments:
Good luck with the vote. My ballot is ready to mail.
Just for fun, check out this site:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=111256528714
One million strong against Socialist Firefighters and their Commie firetrucks (you know, because they're red.) Should be good for a laugh if you haven't already seen it.
Thanks Rob. I love the link. In fact, I bought a t-shirt from these guys and wore it last week. The shirt says, "Stop Socialism! No socialized police care, fire care, library care, etc."
It sure makes you think how wacky it is that they think Obama's plan to make people buy insurance from private companies is socialist. Weird!
Here's some information on a new 3 on 3 basketball tournament. Register online at www.rooftophoops.com:
Roof Top Hoops is a 3-on-3 basketball tournament held June 5th and 6th, 2010 in Spokane WA. We are committed to organizing and operating an outstanding tournament. Played on the upper deck parking garage at North Town Mall this tournament provides a unique location for players and spectators. Teams will play in a double elimination tournament and will be guaranteed three games. Roof Top Hoops also features a slam-dunk contest and a 3-point shoot-out. This is street basketball played on a whole new level!
For the non-player, Roof Top Hoops is a dynamic two day even that is wholesome, family-oriented, and fun for everyone. With the effort and enthusiasm of volunteers, visitors will find activities for the whole family. North Town Mall will be open for everyone to enjoy shopping, dining and entertainment in Spokane, Washington. It's a weekend full of entertainment for everyone.
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