From excerpts on ChicagoTribune.com:
The Newport Township Fire Protection District is once again pushing for a tax hike to update its aging equipment. This upcoming March 15 referendum seeks an additional .132 cents for every $100 of a property's assessed value—mirroring last year's proposal that failed to pass with only 44% support. Should this measure succeed, homeowners in a house valued at $100,000 could expect to contribute approximately $43.75 annually to the district, as explained by Newport Fire Chief Mark Kirchhoffer.
Kirchhoffer highlighted that tax rates haven't been adjusted for the fire district in 23 years, emphasizing the urgent need for funds to replace outdated gear. Over the past six years, the total taxable value within the township has plummeted from $268,807,724 in 2009 to $188,752,091 in 2015, resulting in significantly lower tax revenues. This decline of nearly $80 million in taxable value has left the Newport Fire District struggling with around $1.25 million in annual tax income while maintaining a $1.9 million operational budget.
In a conversation, Kirchhoffer expressed his frustration: "Our tax rate would be manageable if there were more taxable assets. People understandably oppose tax hikes, but I rely on these services too. I want assurance that help will arrive swiftly when I need it. We're operating as efficiently as possible, yet the community deserves reliable fire and emergency medical services."
If approved, the new tax revenue would primarily fund essential equipment replacements. According to the National Fire Protection Association standards, fire trucks should be replaced every 25 years. However, the current fleet includes engines purchased in 1989, 1995, and 2000, alongside a tanker bought in 2000. Additionally, all firefighters require updated personal protective gear, and there is a pressing need to replace two aging cardiac monitors and one ambulance.
The fire district covers 38 personnel tasked with protecting 2,300 structures spread across 33 square miles in parts of Beach Park, Old Mill Creek, Wadsworth, and unincorporated areas of Lake County. Approximately 40% of the area is residential, 35% agricultural, and 25% belongs to the Forest Preserve. Only 5% comprises commercial or industrial zones. Due to the absence of public water systems in 95% of the region, the fire district faces unique challenges compared to others.
Kirchhoffer elaborated, "Most people don't understand why we require extra tankers. Without water mains, our operations demand specialized resources." Furthermore, the department shoulders responsibility for responding to accidents on Interstate 94, yet the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority doesn't compensate them for such interventions.
Despite collecting some revenue through ambulance fees, recent healthcare reforms have affected insurance reimbursements. Consequently, the fire district continues providing the same level of care despite receiving less financial backing.
The district's efforts underscore the critical balance between maintaining adequate staffing levels and ensuring timely response times in rural and semi-rural environments like those served by the Newport Township Fire Protection District.
Fresh Keeping Agent,1 Mcp,Mcp 1 Plant Growth Regulator,Methylcyclopropene Mcp 1
JIANG SU CYCLE BIOSCIENCE CO.,LTD , https://www.plantbiostimulant.com