South Placer Fire District Seeks Voter Approval for New Parcel Tax Amid Financial Struggles
The South Placer Fire District is asking voters in Loomis and Granite Bay to approve Measure B, a ballot initiative that would establish a uniform $375 annual parcel tax across the district. This measure aims to address significant financial challenges, including station closures, high firefighter turnover, and outdated equipment. Currently, Granite Bay households pay $70 annually, while Loomis households pay over $400 through a combination of parcel taxes and benefit assessments. If approved by two-thirds of voters, Measure B would replace these existing structures, generating an estimated $5.75 million annually for the district, an increase of about $2.5 million. Fire Chief Darin Snedeker states that two of the district's six stations are already closed in Granite Bay, and a third may close if Measure B fails, leading to longer emergency response times.