Voters Approve Sustainable Funding Solution for Graham Fire & Rescue

Voters Approve Sustainable Funding Solution for Graham Fire & Rescue

[Graham, WA] — Early primary election results show voters in Pierce County approving Graham Fire & Rescue’s sustainable funding measure, the Benefit Charge.

As of Thursday, November 5, 2020, 68.36% of voters approve the measure with 19,927 votes, and 31.64% reject it, with 9,223 votes. Approval of the Benefit Charge requires 60% + 1 approval from voters. For election results, visit: https://www.piercecountywa.gov/6573/View-Election-Results

The Benefit Charge will bring sustainable and stable funding for fire and emergency medical services for Graham Fire & Rescue residents by diversifying Fire District revenues to include a funding source other than property taxes.

“I am humbled and thankful for the overwhelming support from our community,” said Fire Chief Pat Dale. “I want to thank the public for exercising their right to vote and passing the Benefit Charge, allowing us to continue providing the high-level service our residents have come to expect.”

The existing Maintenance and Operations Levy, passed by voters in 2018, will be repealed effective January 2021, and the Fire Levy rate will drop to $1.00 per thousand dollars of assessed value.

A virtual public hearing is scheduled on Nov. 9, 2020 at 6:00 pm to review and establish the Benefit Charges on individual properties for 2021.

If you have questions or would like more information on the Benefit Charge, please visit www.GrahamFire.org/Benefit-Charge or email BenefitCharge@GrahamFire.org.