Depending on how voters decide in the Aug. 2 primary election, Cowlitz County Fire District 6 in Castle Rock may see its first fire levy increase in 50 years to help retain ambulance service.
This year, volunteer levels are at an all-time low, with only four volunteer EMTs residing within the fire district. As a temporary solution, the district has hired three temporary firefighters and EMTs to keep its ambulance running, says Castle Rock Fire Chief Bill LeMonds.
The district has reported that in the past 14 months there have been over 30 instances where paramedics and temporary employees have been paid overtime to keep the ambulance in service for the community, a solution that the district claims is not sustainable.
The Fire District is asking for a levy lid lift to raise the current levy from $0.42 per $1,000 of assessed property value to $1.20. The raise would enable the district to hire three full-time firefighter/EMTs. The difference would cost the owner of a $150,000 home an extra $117 annually.
Castle Rock Fire Chief Bill LeMonds fears the district won’t be able to continue ambulance service if the levy fails.