During a recent government meeting, the Edmonds City Council discussed the potential annexation into the Regional Fire Authority (RFA) and its implications for local property taxes. The central question posed to the council was whether to adjust the general property tax levy for 2026 if the city joins the RFA.

The council reviewed financial projections indicating that the cost of fire services has significantly increased over the past few years. In 2022, the city’s fire contract was approximately $9 million, which rose by $1.5 million due to union negotiations in 2023. The council noted that funding for these services has increasingly relied on reserves and one-time federal funds, raising concerns about sustainability.

Looking ahead to 2026, the estimated cost for fire services could reach $19.5 million, while the general fund budget is projected at about $13.9 million. This discrepancy raises questions about how the city will fund its fire services moving forward.

The council also examined the potential tax implications for residents. For a typical home valued at $836,000, the total annual tax increase could be around $809 if the levy remains unchanged. However, if the council opts to reduce the levy by approximately $6 million, the increase could drop to $484 annually.

Council members expressed the need to deliberate on whether to retain the full levy amount, which has historically funded various municipal responsibilities, or to reduce it to alleviate the tax burden on residents. The mayor is expected to present a budget proposal soon, which may provide further clarity on the city’s financial direction.

The discussion highlighted the importance of making informed decisions regarding fire and emergency medical services while balancing the financial impact on the community. The council is set to continue deliberations on this critical issue in the coming weeks.