Don’t endanger Franklin Co. first responders. Vote yes for 911 & fire crews | Editorial
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Tri-City Herald 2024 election recommendations
The Tri-City Herald Editorial Board met with more than two dozen candidates for local and state office. Here are their endorsements.
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We strongly urge voters to approve three vital measures that would increase investments in public safety, emergency services, and education – all essential for maintaining and improving the quality of life in our region.
Franklin County Prop. 1: A lifeline for emergency communications
Franklin County’s Proposition 1 is a critical investment in public safety that deserves public support. The measure proposes a 0.2% sales tax increase, with half expiring after three years, to fund the modernization of 911 emergency communications systems.
The county relies on outdated and piecemeal emergency communications components that now pose a significant risk to public safety. This tax increase is not just about updating technology — It’s about saving lives.
The new system will reduce response times, improve coordination during emergencies and provide first responders with the tools they need to serve the community more effectively. At just two cents per $10 purchase for the first three years and one cent thereafter, this is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing help will arrive swiftly when people need it most.
Both large and small, urban and rural, emergency responders will benefit from a modern system. All are under financial strain these days and cannot afford to install upgrades without support from taxpayers.
A Yes vote will ensure that all emergency services can operate at the highest standard, regardless of their size or budget.
Franklin County Fire District 1, Prop. 1: Support emergency responders
The levy lid lift proposed by Franklin County Fire Protection District No. 1 is long overdue. Voters last approved a lid lift in 2001. Since then, inflation has increased costs by more than 85%.
Fire District No. 1 protects the North Central part of the county, including communities around Mesa and Connell. Already this year, firefighters have responded to 138 calls in the district, which is as many as they responded to in all of 2023.
The proposed increase from $0.38 to $0.95 per $1,000 of assessed value is necessary to maintain adequate funding for district operations, including emergency medical services. The district has reached a critical point. It has had to dip into equipment and emergency expense funds to cover operational costs. That is neither sustainable nor safe.
With stabilized funding will also come better insurance ratings and potentially lower costs for homeowners eventually. By supporting this measure, voters will help local emergency services protect the community.
This story was originally published October 25, 2024 at 5:00 AM.
BEHIND THE STORY
MOREBehind Our Election Recommendations
Who decides the recommendations?
The Tri-City Herald editorial board is comprised of experienced opinion journalists and community members, and is separate from The Herald’s newsroom. Conversations are on the record.
What does the recommendation process entail?
Whenever possible, The Herald editorial board meets with opposing candidates at the same time. The questions are largely focused on a candidate’s qualifications and goals. The editorial board then discusses the candidates in each race and decides who to recommend. Board members seek to reach a consensus on our recommendations, but not every decision is unanimous.
Is the editorial board partisan?
No. In making recommendations, members of the editorial board consider which candidates are well prepared to represent their constituents — not whether they agree with us or belong to a particular political party. We evaluate candidates’ relevant experience, their readiness for office, their depth of knowledge of key issues, their understanding of public policy and their ability to work with the current board . We’re seeking candidates who are thoughtful and who offer more than just party-line talking points. The editorial board will endorse both Republicans and Democrats.
Why are the editorials unsigned?
Our election recommendations reflect the collective views of The Herald’s editorial board — not just the opinion of one writer. For the 2024 election, the board includes: Laurie Williams, Herald executive editor; Jack Briggs, retired Herald publisher; Ken Robertson, retired Herald editor; Rosa Torres, community representative. Chris Trejbal is our editorial writer.
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