Who: Cassville Fire Protection District

What: Proposing .5% sales tax on November ballot

For:

Facility improvement, staffing, equipment, long-term stability

November ballot initiative aims to improving facilities, staffing, equipment, more

The Cassville Fire Protection District (CFPD) has announced a proposed sales tax initiative that will appear on the Nov. 4 ballot.

The measure seeks voter approval of a sales tax to help offset the current property tax, while also providing critical funding for facility and equipment upgrades, part-time staffing, improved communications and a more sustainable funding source for future operations.

“The proposed sales tax would create a more balanced and resilient funding structure for the district, allowing CFPD to meet the growing demands of fire protection and emergency response in the Cassville area without placing the full burden on property owners,” said Chief Derek Acheson.

Funds generated by the sales tax would be allocated to:

• Upgrading aging fire apparatus and facilities

• Purchasing and maintaining critical equipment

• Hiring and retaining parttime personnel and additional volunteers to ensure adequate responses

• Modernizing communication systems

• Providing consistent and reliable funding for the district’s long-term needs To inform the public and encourage open dialogue, CFPD will host a series of open house events in September and October, where residents can tour facilities, view equipment and speak directly with department personnel.

“Community members are encouraged to attend, ask questions and learn more about how the initiative would impact both the district and taxpayers,” Acheson said.

For more information or to submit questions directly, people may contact Acheson at derek. acheson@cassvillefpd.org.