Local Option Levy
To the Residents of the St. Paul Rural Fire Protection District,
On behalf of the men and women of the St. Paul Fire District, I want to extend our deepest gratitude for your incredible support in passing the operating levy on November 4th.
Your vote of confidence is more than just an investment in our department — it’s a statement of trust in the people who respond when you call for help. It tells every firefighter, EMT, and volunteer that our community values their dedication, professionalism, and service.
Because of your support, we will continue to provide the high-quality fire protection and emergency medical services that St. Paul depends on — without interruption, without compromise. The levy ensures that our stations remain staffed, our equipment remains ready, and our crews remain trained and prepared to serve.
We take this responsibility seriously. Every dollar entrusted to us will be used to safeguard our town, strengthen our readiness, and honor the faith you’ve placed in us.
From structure fires to medical emergencies, from fire prevention efforts to community education, our mission remains the same: to protect lives, property, and the future of this district.
Thank you for believing in us and standing behind the St. Paul Fire District. Your continued partnership makes all the difference.
With deep appreciation,
Bryan G. Lee – Fire Chief
St. Paul Rural Fire Protection District
What is the St. Paul Fire District Local Option Levy?
The St. Paul Fire District is proposing a local option levy of $1.08 per $1,000 of assessed property value to replace the district’s current operating levy, which expired November 2025. This measure ensures the district can continue providing high-quality fire, medical, and rescue services to our community.
Who Does the District Serve?
The St. Paul Fire District proudly serves an approximate 48-square-mile area, including the City of St. Paul and its surrounding communities.
What Services Does the District Provide?
- Emergency Response: First responder for fire, medical, and rescue emergencies.
- Fire Prevention: Programs to keep our community safe.
- Fire Investigations: Determining causes to prevent future incidents.
Public Education: Teaching safety and preparedness. - Non-Emergency Assistance: Supporting residents with community needs.
How is the District Currently Funded?
The district operates on a permanent property tax rate of $1.0622 per $1,000 of assessed value and revenue from ambulance transport fees. The previous operating levy, which has now expired, provided additional critical funding. Without a new levy, the district faces challenges meeting rising costs and equipment needs.
How Will Levy Funds Be Used?
If approved, the levy will provide critical funding to:
- Ensure 24/7 Paramedic Coverage: Continue funding part-time paid paramedics to be on duty at all times, working alongside volunteer EMTs for rapid emergency response.
- Replace Obsolete Apparatus: Upgrade aging fire and rescue vehicles with modern equipment featuring advanced safety and technology for firefighters and residents.
- Maintain the Fleet: Cover rising maintenance costs and secure parts for an aging fleet, ensuring reliability during emergencies.
- Purchase Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Replace expired turnout gear (with a 10-year lifespan) to keep firefighters safe while protecting our community.
- Upgrade EMS and Fire Equipment: Replace outdated equipment, like the LifePack Defibrillator Model 12, which is obsolete and critical for responding to motor vehicle crashes with multiple patients. Without replacements, delays in care could occur if mutual aid from neighboring agencies is needed.
What is the Cost to Taxpayers?
For a home with the median assessed value of $309,185, the levy would cost approximately:
- $309.19 per year, or
- ~$25.77 per month.
This levy replaces the expired operating levy, maintaining essential funding to keep our services strong without introducing a new tax burden beyond the previous level.
What Happens if the Levy is Not Approved?
If the levy does not pass, the St. Paul Fire District will struggle to:
- Fully fund increasing emergency response costs, especially without the expired levy’s support.
- Replace outdated equipment, risking delays in critical care.
- Maintain aging apparatus and protective gear, potentially compromising firefighter and resident safety.
While emergency response will remain the top priority, the district’s ability to provide timely, effective services could be significantly impacted without this funding.
The St. Paul Fire District is committed to keeping our community safe. This levy ensures we can maintain rapid, reliable emergency services and invest in the equipment needed to protect lives and property. Your vote determines whether we can continue to meet the growing needs of our community, from responding to motor vehicle crashes to ensuring firefighter safety. Remember to vote on Election Day, November 4, 2025.
Check the Marion County Elections website for full voter guide: