CLEARLAKE >> With overwhelming approval, voters passed Measure D, which will secure funds for the fire department.
With almost 2,000 citizens voting out of the 8,500 estimated registered voters, the measure won with a 1,325 “yes” vote. Measure D will replace the previous special tax that has been in place since 1997. The new measure will increase property tax $4 for the first year and an adjusted amount each year depending on the consumer price index.
The increase in revenue for the Lake County Fire Protection District will be used for fire protection, rescue, emergency medical services, hazardous materials and other services to help protect lives and property.
The tax will go into effect in the 2017/2018 fiscal year. The Measure will bridge the gap between the current funding and the actual cost of the services, allow hiring of personal to staff the Lower Lake Fire Station 24 hours a day and will add annual cost of living so funds will not be lost to inflations.
Fire Chief Willie Sapeta said his goal is to increase service and create safety in the community and with the Measure passed he will be able to do so.
“I really can’t thank the community members enough that had the faith for us to move the next step forward. Our goal is to provide sustainability and customer service,” Sapeta said. “It’ll allow us to have a third paramedic ambulance out or a second engine out.”
