City of Bothell Proposition 1: annex into the Shoreline Fire Department Regional Fire Authority

Official plain English statement

The Bothell City Council adopted Resolution 1784 requesting voter approval to annex into and become part of the Shoreline Fire Department Regional Fire Authority ("RFA"). As the region has grown and costs have increased, Bothell has considered governance/service models for fire and emergency medical services ("EMS"). As part of its study, Bothell contracted with the RFA for fire administration (Fire Chief) services. The City Council has determined that annexing into the RFA ensures long-term sustainability of funding to maintain current fire protection and EMS service levels. Annexation will not change the delivery or the level of services to Bothell residents. If annexation is approved, Bothell Fire Department would become part of the larger RFA, instead of operating as a standalone, smaller fire department. By combining resources and expertise and coordinating efforts, fire and EMS service can gain efficiencies, including response operations. Bothell voters will be entitled to vote on all ballot measures proposed by the RFA—including those pertaining to taxation and benefit charges. Bothell will have representation on the RFA Board. If annexation is rejected, Bothell would need to reseek voter approval, negotiate a new agreement with RFA or another agency, or reconstitute the Bothell Fire Department. https://bothellwa.gov/2209/Fire-Service-Study For questions about this measure, contact: Kyle Stannert, City Manager, (425) 806-6141, [email protected]