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, El Jahncke, Elliott Newman, Rich Erwin, Rand Ginn, Ida Ballasiotes, Pat Braman, Bryan Cairns, Andrew King, Bill Hochberg and Richard Ferry, to name just a few, all agree that it is time to replace our 60-year-old South end fire station and rescue truck. After all, safety does not have a political party.

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 firefighters and their needed equipment will be there to help in case of a fire, major disaster, medical emergency, car or water accident or construction mishap.

While I hope none of us ever needs the services of our fire department, last year, there were 2,300 incidences on Mercer Island requiring emergency fire response. The men and women 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.

Tana Senn

Councilmember, City of Mercer Island