Commission approves putting fire‑levy renewal and small rate increase on ballot

Representatives of the Hampshire County Fire Association asked commissioners Feb. 10 to place a levy renewal and a quarter‑cent rate increase on the regular election ballot (preferably the primary). The currently authorized levy, assessed at 1.5 cents per $100 of assessed value for class‑1 property, was presented with a proposed increase to 1.75 cents per $100. The Fire Association said the change would increase total collections — allowing for a 7% uncollectible estimate — from approximately $651,647 to approximately $760,255 under current assessed values.

Commissioners discussed auditor review and whether to place the order on the ballot with conditional approval pending any significant recommendations from the auditor. Commissioner Eglanger moved to authorize moving forward with conditional authorization subject to auditor review; the motion was amended to allow conditional authorization to proceed without returning to the commission unless major changes were required. The motion passed by voice vote.

Clerk Strait and county staff will manage the ballot wording, calculations and distribution to the auditor and election officials as required by law. Commissioners and the Fire Association emphasized volunteer recruitment and retention supports and noted that the additional funds would be split according to the association’s distribution plan.