Lewis County Fire District 6 Proposition 1: levy lid lift to $1.15 per $1,000

Official plain English statement

Lewis County Fire Protection District No. 6 provides emergency fire protection and emergency medical services to its citizens. Due to the statutory 1% limitation on property tax increases, the Fire District's current levy has dropped to approximately $.79 per thousand in 2026. With the impact of the recent city of Chehalis annexation, the anticipated levy rate for the remaining fire district areas is expected to be $.99 per thousand of assessed valuation. The maximum tax levy rate or fire districts is $1.50 per thousand. If approved by the voters, this proposition authorizes the fire district to establish its regular real property tax levy rate at $1.15 per $1,000 of assessed valuation in 2026 for collection in 2027. The dollar amount actually levied for collection in 2027 would then be subject to the state 101% limit in future years. The senior and disabled property tax exemption authorized by RCW 84.36.381 would apply to the regular property taxes authorized by the measure. The Board of Commissioners has not requested a levy adjustment in many years and has determined that this proposition is necessary to maintain an effective level of services, fire fighter staffing, equipment and facilities in light of rising costs, rising demands and the continued growth of our community. Approval of this measure will allow the District to maintain the level of fire protection and emergency medical services provided to its citizens and provide for firefighter safety.