Georgetown Residents to Vote on Crucial Fire Safety Tax Increase in November

Georgetown Residents Face Important Decision in November

The city of Georgetown is gearing up for another critical election this November, and it’s all about fire safety and the future of emergency services in the area. Officials are returning to voters with a proposition that aims to raise the sales tax rate to help fund the construction of new fire stations. This move comes on the heels of a previous election where a similar measure was narrowly defeated by just 250 votes.

Previous Attempts Were Challenging

In November 2023, the Emergency Services District No. 8 proposition received support from 1,846 voters, which accounted for 46.8% of the electorate. However, it wasn’t enough to pass, as 2,096 individuals—or 53.2%—voted against the increase. This wasn’t the first time local voters have been asked to consider an increase in sales tax for emergency services. Back in 2022, a proposition met a similar fate with 61% of residents opposing it, and in 2007 a measure went down in flames with a striking 78% of voters saying no.

Fire Chief John Sullivan, who also serves as a consultant for the district, remains optimistic about the upcoming election. He emphasizes the importance of getting more residents engaged this time around. “After last year’s election, we had a focus group meeting where we kept hearing that people had no idea what was going on,” Sullivan explained. His hope is that with a larger turnout—especially during a presidential election year—more people will understand the critical nature of the proposition.

What’s on the Table?

Currently, Georgetown’s residents are paying a 6.25% sales tax. If voters approve the proposed increase, the tax rate would rise to 8.25%, aligning more closely with other nearby municipalities that charge the same rate. Sullivan believes this change would help create a fairer tax system. “The increased revenue means that not just property owners, but also tourists and visitors who pass through will help contribute to funding emergency services,” he noted.

The proposed increase in sales tax could raise approximately $4 million per year, which would finance the construction of *five new fire stations* over the next decade. This is crucial since the Georgetown Fire Department and ESD No. 8 plan to share these new facilities as well as other operational resources. At present, there is only one fire station located on Williamson Drive within the district’s reach.

Growing Community, Growing Needs

Emergency Services District No. 8 serves a sprawling area of about 80 square miles around Georgetown, which includes an estimated population of 35,000 to 45,000 people. This number is anticipated to double in the next ten years. The district will be welcoming new developments that could significantly change the landscape, including communities like Teravista, Water Oak, and Parkside on the River.

With growth comes the crucial need for timely emergency services. Sullivan warns that without the tax increase, residents may notice slower response times as the population—and the number of emergency calls—grows. “People can’t expect response times to be 10 to 15 minutes if you are doubling the number of people and double the number of calls,” he cautioned, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

As Georgetown prepares for this pivotal election, there hasn’t been any formal opposition to the proposed tax hike. Early voting is set to begin on October 21, with Election Day following on November 5. For those living in the district, this election could play a role in shaping the future of emergency services in the community. Let’s hope more residents stay informed and participate in this crucial decision-making process!