Among the many political candidate signs at intersections and yards, you may also see some of the ballot measures for voters to decide on June 5th. One of those Measures for South county voters is Measure B. This is an increase in the local fire assessment fee, similar to recent assessments passed in Nevada County Consolidated’s district and Placer County’s New castle area. The Higgins Fire Department will be hosting a meeting this (Tuesday) evening May 8th at Bear River High School, with a   presentation explaining how tax revenues have dropped significantly in the the poor economy and how costs to the department have increased,and to share information about the measure with area residents. Higgins Fire is facing a budget shortfall of $450 thousand dollars according to Chief Jerry Good and will need to lay off 5 firefighters and close 1 of the 3 stations in the district without additional revenue. According to Chief Good that will double the response time for the 12 thousand residents they serve in the 90 square mile district the department covers.

Higgins Fire Chief Good Measure B

Measure B requires a 2-thirds vote to pass, essentially increasing the current property tax of residents in the district by $100 dollars a year.  The public meeting is at 7pm this evening in the Amphitheater of Bear River High School near Lake of the Pines.