Published: February 26, 2009 09:12 am      

Fire facilities referendum passage a must for Clinton

Clinton voters have a big decision to make Tuesday. On that day, they will be asked whether they want to commit to the construction of a new Lyons Fire Station, a major remodeling of Chancy Fire Station and the purchase of a new fire engine.

The proposal, which seeks $4.1 million, would be paid back over the next 20 years, with a homeowner whose home has an assessed valuation of $100,000 to pay about $18.50 per year.

We know that times are tough. Finances are tight and it’s hard to even think about the possibility of an increase in property taxes.

But this is a necessary move: Not only will it provide better coverage on the north end of town — decreasing response times — but it also means that there will be four firefighters at each station. That is important because if there is a fire, firefighters cannot go in the building unless there are two firefighters who can go in and two who can remain outside.

There also will be better ambulance coverage, with one at each station, and a police satellite office at each station as well.

We believe that investing in public safety is a necessity, that if an emergency crew is needed to put out the fire at your home, or help your loved one should they be showing signs of a heart attack, there is no amount you wouldn’t pay to save them.

Add that to the fact that fire officials say a property tax rollback will help offset any increased cost. That means your taxes will hardly increase — if at all — as the result of the passage of the measure.

We also believe enhanced public safety makes for a community that is attractive to economic development, and increased safety and maintains a city’s fire safety rating.

That means insurance rates paid by residents also continue to be positively impacted. We have seen that happen in past years.

When it all is added up, it is our hope that voters will support this measure.

This plan has been in development for about eight years.

It's been well thought out.

The firefighters will take care of what the city gives them.

Now is the time to approve this project.