Mill Creek Petitions South County Fire for Annexation

Mill Creek's City Council is poised to make a pivotal change in local emergency services by petitioning for annexation to South Snohomish County Fire & Rescue. This decision follows the announcement from Snohomish Regional Fire & Rescue that it would not renew its contract without significant cost increases, prompting the city to explore alternatives. A resolution passed unanimously by the council will allow residents to vote on this proposal during a special election this spring. If approved, the annexation could lead to cost savings for Mill Creek property owners, as South County Fire's rates are projected to be lower than those of SRFR. Interim City Manager Martin Yamamoto noted that both service providers maintain high standards of emergency care, but annexation appears to be the most cost-effective option.

Currently, Mill Creek property owners pay approximately $0. 88 per $1,000 in assessed value for fire and EMS, while South County Fire's projected rate is $1. 51 per $1,000. Should voters reject the annexation, the city may need to raise additional revenue through increased levies to cover rising service costs. The city plans to engage residents in discussions about the implications of this decision as the election approaches.