Quilcene Fire Rescue (Jefferson County Fire Protection District No. 2) 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 $.75 per $1,000 of assessed value from the 2015 voter approved rate of $1.25. The maximum regular levy rate for Washington fire districts is $1.50 per $1,000 of assessed value. 

If approved by the voters, this proposition will authorize the District to restore its levy rate to $1.25 per $1,000 of assessed valuation in 2026 for collection in 2027 which is the same rate previously approved by the voters in 2015. The dollar amount levied in 2026 will serve as the District’s future tax levy base.

The Board of Commissioners 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.