Supervisors Postpone Decision on Fire Assessment Increase

After a brief public hearing, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on Thursday delayed for a month a decision on a proposal to boost the county Fire Department’s fire protection charge for homeowners by more than 50%.

More than 550,000 homeowners in unincorporated areas and cities served by county firefighters would see their annual property assessment rise from $36.55 to $55.96 if the increase is approved. Fees for apartment buildings and other commercial properties also would be increased.

County Fire Chief P. Michael Freeman told supervisors that a decline in real estate values will reduce the amount that the department receives in property taxes. The increase in the annual assessment is necessary to partially offset the loss, he said.

In the Antelope Valley, the Fire Department said two stations in Lancaster and one in Palmdale could be among the nine stations across the county that would be closed if the assessment is not approved.

Additionally, stations in Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Lancaster, Palmdale and Santa Clarita are among those that would have their staffs reduced from four firefighters to three per shift.

Supervisor Mike Antonovich said he will support the assessment if the Fire Department first examines its budget for alternative cuts, and whether the assessment could be reduced or eliminated if the county’s property tax receipts return to normal levels.

Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky said he will support an assessment in order to maintain county fire services.

Freeman said failure to adopt the increase would “hamper the ability of the Fire Department” to provide vital services.

Dallas Jones, president of the Los Angeles County Firefighters, Local 1014, endorsed the increase, saying it is necessary to ensure protection of lives and property. His sentiments were echoed by a handful of homeowners who appeared before the board.

At the suggestion of Yaroslavsky, the board voted 3 to 0 to delay a decision on the increase until updated information on the financial condition of the Fire Department becomes available in coming weeks.

Supervisor Yvonne Brathwaite Burke questioned the method of determining the increase, expressing concern that it may unduly affect homeowners rather than owners of commercial and industrial properties.

Freeman said he will return to the board in mid-September seeking approval of the increase.