Excerpts from the Daily Herald: In recent discussions, Fox Lake Fire Protection District officials have announced plans to seek voter approval for a significant tax increase in the upcoming election. This move comes as a response to growing concerns over outdated equipment and insufficient staffing levels at fire stations located in unincorporated areas. Chief Ron Hoehne highlighted the necessity of hiring at least three additional full-time paramedics and increasing funding for vehicle maintenance due to an 8% surge in emergency calls last year. Currently, the district employs two full-time paramedics per shift at its stations on Molidor Road in Ingleside and Main Street in Spring Grove. Each station operates three shifts, with paramedics working 24-hour rotations followed by 48 hours off. To meet the minimum staffing requirements, particularly at the Molidor Road station, adding one paramedic per shift is essential. The referendum question appearing on the April 7 ballot proposes more than doubling the current property tax rate for ambulance services within the district. Specifically, the rate would rise from .133 to .350 per $100 equalized assessed value, representing an increase of 21.7 cents. For homeowners with properties valued at $100,000, this adjustment could result in approximately $72 in additional annual property taxes. If approved, the initiative aims to generate roughly $850,000 in new revenue for the fire district during its first year. It's important to note that the referendum does not apply to residents of the village of Fox Lake, who are covered under a separate three-year contract. While the fire district serves a population of 33,000 across 30 square miles, the referendum specifically targets the 22,000 individuals residing outside the village boundaries. Chief Hoehne emphasized that this marks the first time the district has sought such an increase since establishing its current ambulance tax in 1978. Over the past decade, however, challenges have mounted. Home values in the area have plummeted since 2008, leading to declining tax revenues. Between 2008 and 2013, the district's equalized assessed value dropped from $580 million to $396 million. Moreover, emergency call volumes have continued to rise since 2013. Facing these financial pressures, the district has been forced to deplete its already limited reserves just to maintain operations last year. As Chief Hoehne stated, "We're operating on a break-even budget right now. Any major incident or substantial repair to our aging fleet could be disastrous." The district maintains a fleet of 26 vehicles, and the costs associated with keeping them operational continue to escalate, especially given their age and increased usage due to higher emergency demands. If approved, the proposed tax increase would align the Fox Lake fire district's ambulance rates with those of neighboring communities like Fox River Grove, Long Grove, Lake Villa Township, and Lake Zurich, which already charge comparable fees for similar services. Despite these efforts, Chief Hoehne acknowledged the uphill battle ahead. "We've always managed to get by without asking for more money," he noted, "but circumstances have changed. We can't afford to ignore these issues any longer." Many residents remain divided over whether this increase is justified, citing both the importance of reliable emergency services and concerns about rising living expenses. Some expressed hope that the additional funds will indeed address critical infrastructure needs while ensuring the safety and well-being of all district residents. Others worry about the long-term implications of yet another tax hike amidst ongoing economic uncertainty. As Election Day approaches, local leaders continue urging community members to weigh their options carefully, considering both immediate necessities and future sustainability. Regardless of the outcome, it's clear that finding equitable solutions to meet public safety demands remains a pressing priority for everyone involved. Thanks to Dan and Ron for sharing their insights!

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