Chelan County Fire Levy sees tight split in first election count

CHELAN COUNTY — Voters are split on the Chelan County Fire District No. 8 Proposition No. 1, a property tax levy that would provide essential funding for capital equipment replacement and volunteer support. 

The first count Tuesday night in the general election revealed that 53.31%, or 556 voters, are in support of the measure, while 46.69% or 487 voters are opposed.

The measure, outlined in Resolution No. 2024-1 by the district’s Board of Fire Commissioners, proposes a levy of $0.95 per $1,000 of assessed property valuation, effective in 2025.

If approved, this levy would generate funds specifically to replace aging firefighting equipment and support volunteer services, critical components in the district’s emergency response efforts. The dollar amount established by the 2024 levy would also serve as the baseline for future levy limitations, ensuring continued support for necessary upgrades and volunteer resources.

The next ballot count will be released on Wednesday, November 6 at 5 p.m. Election results will be certified on Tuesday, November 26.

Quinn Propst:509-731-3590 or quinn@ward.media