New merger talks involving the Lynnwood Fire Department and Snohomish County Fire District 1 are starting Monday.
The city and the fire district are exploring the possibility of forming a regional fire authority, a new government body that would levy its own taxes to provide fire protection and emergency medical services. Snohomish County already has one fire authority, in Stanwood. Marysville and Arlington also have been kicking the idea around and expect to start meeting soon.
Similar talks between cities and fire districts in south county fell apart a few years ago. Since then, Lynnwood and Fire District 1 have signed a contract to share Lynnwood’s fire chief, Scott Cockrum, through at least 2018.
The first public meeting to start planning the new proposed fire authority is set for 1 p.m. Monday at Lynnwood City Hall.