SCI Consulting Group presented the results of the survey mailed to about 8,000 registered voters and property owners between October 30, 2011 and November 20, 2011 to accurately evaluate the viability of a benefit assessment and a parcel tax. Over twenty-two percent of the surveys were returned.

Those who received the survey were asked if they would support an additional annual fee of $65, $85 or $110 and the various levels of service each would fund were described.

The responses were broken down into a number of categories including Property Owner Support; Registered Voter Support; Rate and Age; Support by Years in Residence and Rate; Support by Political Party and Rate; and Support by Issues.

Comments in favor of an increased fee included Fire/Medial services are important; fiscal accountability is important; stated amount is reasonable to pay for these services; and received good service in the past. Adverse comments included salaries/benefits are too high; district doesn’t need the money; no more/new taxes; economic issues, mistrust of government agencies.

The study concluded that local fire protection is important to the community, but found neither a benefit assessment nor a parcel tax would likely pass. The CSI Consulting Group suggested that even a strong advocacy campaign would not achieve the support levels needed for a successful revenue measure. In particular, residents are concerned about the cost of firefighter salaries and benefits, including pensions.

The SCI Consulting Group recommended that the District not proceed with a funding measure at this time and instead conduct comprehensive, long term public outreach to increase public understanding of the need for better fire protection services. The SPFD board may take action on how to proceed at the next regular meeting which is February 15.

• South Placer Fire District Webpage
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