Lacey City Council backs $98.3 million Fire District 3 bond measure

The Lacey City Council approved a resolution that endorses a multimillion-dollar bond measure from Lacey Fire District 3 in the Nov. 3 General Election.

The measure calls for the authorization of up to $98.3 million in general obligation bonds, which would be used for capital improvements to address deficiencies in fire station space, emergency response coverage, training resources and storage.

Council members adopted Resolution 1187 during their meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 6. The funding proposal is on the Nov. 3 General Election ballot as Proposition No. 1. 

The resolution encourages voters to approve the measure, identifying an increase in emergency calls and current and future service needs as reasons for additional fire district facilities. 

Lacey Fire District 3 Chief Jennifer Schmidt said the district is preparing for continued growth, most notably in areas north of Interstate 5 (I-5). The proposed investments aim to improve emergency services in Lacey and its urban growth area. 

The bond measure would also pay for a new Station 36 north of I-5, and a new or replacement facility for Station 32 off Yelm Highway. 

The proposal also includes a regional live-fire training facility and a logistics warehouse. Schmidt said the district currently lacks its own training center, something the growing agency needs. 

Schmidt also said the district finances regular expenses, including personnel and emergency vehicles, through a levy.

If the bond measue is approved, the money would be repaid through annual excess property tax levies over 20 years. Schmidt estimated an additional $8 to $11 in monthly property taxes for an average family. 

Mayor Andy Ryder supported the proposal, praising the financial management of the fire district and its preparation for growth in Lacey and its urban growth area. He said emergency responders need proper training and equipment to save lives. 

“They are by far the busiest fire district in Thurston County, and the amount of calls they receive keeps going up and up as the growth has happened in Lacey and urban growth area,” Ryder said. 

Council member Carolyn Cox also supported the resolution and praised the quality of emergency services provided by the district. She thanked district members for their service. 

Council member Lenny Greenstein abstained, objecting to the practice of elected bodies taking action on measures awaiting a voter decision. He said he has followed that position throughout his 15 years on the council. 

“In fact, I sit on the Lacey Fire District 3 Community Advisory Board,” Greenstein said. “This has nothing to do with whether I’m in support or against. I take the same stance in all cases, and for that reason, I will abstain from this vote.” 

The resolution passed with the one abstention. According to a city staff report, approving the resolution has no fiscal impact on the city.