Letter: Safety is Non-Partisan — Vote to Approve Prop 1

Editor:

No matter where on the political spectrum you might fall, voting to approve Proposition 1 for fire and rescue is the right thing to do for our Mercer Island community. Islanders such as Jim Pearman, Patti Darling, Elliott Newman, El Jahncke, Bryan Cairns, Rich Erwin, Rand Ginn, Ida Ballasiotes, Pat Braman, Andrew King, Bill Hochberg and Richard Ferry, to name just a few, all agree that it is time to replace our 50-year old south end fire station and rescue truck. After all, safety and emergency response do not have a political party—as exemplified by President Obama and NJ Governor Christie in response to Hurricane Sandy.

The costs associated with this safety measure are reasonable. On average, Island homeowners will be assessed $60 per year for the coming nine years. In return, Islanders get a new south end fire station expected to last 50 years and a new rescue truck — ensuring fire fighters and their needed equipment will be there to help in case of a fire, major disaster, medical emergency, car or lake accident or construction mishap.

While I hope none of us ever need the services of our fire department, last year, there were 2,300 incidences on Mercer Island requiring emergency fire response. The men and woman who serve the Island respond so well because they are prepared and equipped to do so. We must continue to invest in their ability to react with facilities and equipment that ensure public safety.

In addition to important peace of mind, Proposition 1 is an excellent investment in our community’s infrastructure and safety going forward.

Vote to Approve Proposition 1.

(Signed)

Tana Senn