The levy would fund additional firefighters, support wildfire mitigation, and quick response vehicles

Tuesday, January 24 – Last night, the Clackamas Fire District Board of Directors voted unanimously to refer an emergency services levy to the May 2023 ballot. 

Clackamas Fire District leadership asked the Board to consider the levy to better serve the community. Based on increased wildfire risk, a growing county population, and to implement national best practices, Clackamas Fire District developed a levy that reflected district needs. If passed, the levy would fund 62 additional firefighters, directly address increased wildfire risk, and invest in quick response vehicles. 

“I am grateful to the Board of Directors for their support and willingness to refer this important levy to the May 2023 ballot,” said Clackamas Fire District Chief Nick Browne. “This levy will allow Clackamas Fire District to hire more firefighters, fight wildfires, and invest in equipment that will improve response times.” 

A survey, conducted in November by DHM Research, revealed district-wide support for the proposed levy, especially after voters learned what it would fund.

“The Chief and members of the leadership team have done their due diligence to ensure this is a robust, safety-driven levy,” said Director Chris Hawes, who participated in developing the levy. “It’s clear everyone has made a concerted effort to evaluate Clackamas Fire District’s future needs, conduct community outreach, and ensure that the levy remain affordable.”

If passed, the five-year emergency services levy would provide annual funding of $14.5 million at a cost of $0.52 per thousand of assessed valuation, or about $138 each year for the typical homeowner at the median assessed value. Levy funds would be used to hire additional firefighters and first responders in all parts of the district to help prevent dangerous wildfires from spreading and ensure fast responses to medical emergencies. 

Clackamas Fire District conducted extensive community engagement and outreach efforts. Over the last three months, Clackamas Fire District held three community forums and an open house, where district leaders spoke to hundreds about the proposed levy. Clackamas Fire District also conducted a community survey that evaluated priorities and asked for comments about the potential levy, with the intent to provide all community members the opportunity to provide feedback. 

To learn more about the proposed levy, visit the Clackamas Fire District website.

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