The general obligation bond, passed by voters in November 2019, was specifically earmarked to replace our aging main fire station and key firefighting apparatus. State laws prohibit the use of bond funds for anything other than the specified projects outlined in the bond language. Operational and personnel costs are typically covered through levies, which must be renewed every 5 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
If passed, Measure 22-202 would authorize tax revenue that would fund six additional firefighters, new equipment, and aid local partners. Measure 22-202 would also mitigate response times, enhance capacity, and broaden non-emergency services.
Proposed Measure 22-202 would cost homeowners $0.75 per $1,000 of assessed property value. For example, a home assessed at $200,000 would pay $12.50 per month or $150 per year.
Current firefighters are already working overtime to meet the increased demand for service in our area. Paying overtime can be more expensive than hiring additional full-time positions. Moreover, given the 24-hour shifts our crews work, ensuring sufficient rest is vital for their safety and effectiveness in serving the community.
Additional firefighters mean shorter response times to emergencies. With increased staffing, the Lebanon Fire District can address emergencies more promptly, preventing delays that may occur when all units are committed to simultaneous calls. This increases the likelihood of positive outcomes in emergencies.
While our volunteers are invaluable, they have other careers and are not available 24/7. Moreover, they are unable to transport EMS patients, which make up 70% of our annual call volume. Volunteerism is also facing challenges nationwide, making recruitment and retention difficult.
Some emergencies require additional personnel. Although it may appear that an ambulance crew can handle certain calls independently, there are situations where extra assistance from the engine staff is required for optimal patient care and support.
Ambulance services operate as a separate entity within the Lebanon Fire District, and fees are collected after the service. Property taxes fund the District’s operations, including material services and payroll, but ambulance fees offset specific costs such as replenishing medications and medical equipment.
Firefighters work 24-hour shifts and remain on call during this entire period. They may visit local stores to purchase food for meals. In the event of an emergency call, they will leave their groceries behind and respond promptly.
In addition to emergency response capabilities, the Lebanon Fire District offers an array of services to our community. LFD personnel actively engage in community outreach, public education, disaster and wildfire preparedness services, and various initiatives such as providing smoke alarms, offering bicycle helmets for children, and loaning life jackets. Please visit our website to discover the full scope of our offerings.
Visit our website at LebanonFireOregon.Gov, direct your questions to Fire Chief Joseph Rodondi at jrodondi@lebanonfireoregon.gov, or call (971) 599-1092.