Editor,

On behalf of South Whidbey Fire/EMS, I want to thank residents for supporting the recent fire levy lid lift on the August 6, 2024, election ballot. SWFE provides fire and life safety services to approximately 15,000 residents and another 10,000 visitors and businesses on Whidbey Island south of Mutiny Bay Road.

The levy lid lift will fund additional full-time firefighters to staff a third station in the southeast part of the district, as well as replace aging fire engines and improve firefighter training programs. These improvements will reduce response times and improve service capacity districtwide.

We want our taxpayers to know that we will report back as these improvements are made. This is your fire district, and we answer to you.

Thank you for partnering with us to save lives and property. We are grateful for the support.

Nick Walsh, fire chief

South Whidbey Fire/EMS