As a Fire Fighter with the City of SeaTac for more than 14 years, I find it important to comment on the recent failure of Proposition 1.

Yes, this was an expensive proposition. This was not something thrown together quickly or without a great deal of thought. Over the years there have been multiple studies conducted by third party consultants and City staff, all recommended improvements within the Fire Department.

The Lid Lift would have provided for some of these improvements in many areas. All of them are needed and all of them would provide for better overall service to the citizens.

There was opposition to the vote, which is to be expected. Some of the opposition statements were true, but only gave part of the information.

Former Mayor Hansen, who spoke against the Levy, was the same individual that consistently voted against using existing monies for needed improvements while serving as a city council member.

Although SeaTac enjoys many advantages of being a prosperous and inviting city, the capability of the Fire Department is behind many of the area communities and far behind recommended standards. Our on-duty staffing has stayed the same for almost 15 years. We do not have a Fire Marshal or a Public Educator.

We are unable to provide the emergency services that the City needs and deserves. To depend on the availability of the neighboring departments is risky and unrealistic.

The fire stations are not structurally sound. They were not originally designed for 24-hour staffing at today's level and standards; even now as we enter into the winter months, some of the fire stations do not even have adequately working heat.

If you feel that the services are needed and important I urge everyone to let the City Council know your thoughts. Without your involvement, the emergency services may continue to fall farther behind.

The SeaTac Fire Fighters are honored to be a part of this community and consider it a privilege to serve you and we wish to thank all of you for your time and consideration in this matter.

Richard Knight, President

City of SeaTac Fire Fighters

Local 2919