UPDATE: In a decisive move, Evans voters have approved a 1% sales tax on non-essential items to bolster the Evans Fire Protection District, according to early unofficial election results released at 7:10 PM. The tax received 1,462 votes in favor and 928 votes against, a significant endorsement for the fire department’s funding needs.
This tax measure is projected to generate an additional $3.3 million in revenue by 2026, a critical boost to a budget that has faced increasing pressures from rising operational costs and a surge in service calls. Chief Joe DeSalvo emphasized the necessity of this revenue diversification, as the district currently operates with the smallest budget among the twelve fire protection districts in Weld County, despite having the fourth-highest call volume.
The Evans Fire Protection District’s annual budget stands at $4.4 million, with approximately 85% derived from property taxes. Additional funding comes from specific ownership taxes, grants, and a $200,000 contribution as part of an intergovernmental agreement with the city of Evans, which is set to expire in 2027. Without new funding sources, the district could face severe financial constraints.
Chief DeSalvo expressed hopes that the new tax revenue will allow for hiring additional support and administrative staff, vital for maintaining operational efficiency and replacing aging equipment. Currently, the fire department employs 18 firefighters, with only six available on shift at any given time. This staffing model is precarious; any absence due to sickness or vacation forces the department to implement overtime, leading to potential burnout among staff.
This approval marks a significant shift in community support for fire services, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable funding in the face of growing demands. As the fire district prepares to implement the new tax, the focus will be on enhancing staffing and equipment to better serve the community.
Stay tuned for further updates as new results emerge and the implications of this tax approval unfold.
