Capital Facilities Plan 2023–2036

Figures shown are adjusted for anticipated inflation as per the fire district. Note that each year includes a pre-adjusted cost of $10,000 for engines E58/ E5802/5803 capital improvements for a total of $189,373 adjusted for inflation total.

That level of cost would typically be associated with annual repair costs as opposed to improvements. In fact, the 2023 budget includes $25,550 in repair and maintenance costs for all vehicles as did prior years.

Additionally, years 2031 & 2036 in- clude “unanticipated capital improvement” costs totaling $56,447 for which no explanation is given.

Note also that the 2023 project year includes $30,000 for a resealing and patching repair of the parking lot just two years before the plan calls for a total $382,209 parking lot replacement. Just five years later, $40,826 is dedicated to another R&P of the lot.

In 2025, the CFP calls for the repair of the station’s apparatus bay floor at a cost of $54,601. Then in 2030, the same project will cost $68,043.

Margot

M.Ed., C.L.C.

After 30 years experience at The University of British Columbia in the Office of Counseling Services, I am pleased to begin my Life Coaching practice in Point Roberts. Confidential appointments arranged by email or text. margot@pointroberts.net 206-604-1713 self-awareness personal development relationships recovery wellness transitions retirement life planning please contact Chief Christopher Carleton at 360-945-3473 or chief@wcfd5.com

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From page 6 rate with a combined levy and M&O rate of 1.597 while district # 4 (Van Wyck) is lowest at .62519.

Should the district increase its rate by 40¢ per $1,000 assessed valuation, it would be ranked fifth most taxed district in the county. At 50¢, it would be fourth highest, behind number 3 ranked Lummi Island with its 1.2536 levy. These figures exclude the impact of an additional taxpayer-approved GO bond which would assess an additional and separate tax line item; a limited, non-voter approved bond would be repaid out of general fund revenue.

At present, the district does not have a formal reserve policy. While reserves are meant to cover both operational and infrastructure costs, the way in which fire districts manage reserves varies considerably. Some districts feel that having two or three months’ worth of operational costs is sufficient, others insist on a minimum of 12 months.

In an interview with the All Point Bulle- tin May 23, Carleton said he intended to discuss the various levy and bond possibilities with the commissioners during the next special meeting. He stressed that while the CFP calls for a specified timetable of infrastructure purchases and improvements, the plan is “a living document” where changes can and will be made depending upon circumstances.

Also complicating the picture is uncertainty about future operating costs. Carleton has mentioned in recent meetings that he anticipates some older local volunteers will be retiring from the district within the next few years. He believes that it will then be necessary to replace them with paid employees. Balancing the future needs of the district for labor along with servicing potential debt and paying for new equipment will require prudent balancing of the needs of the department against those of taxpayers.

The next special meetings will be held at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, June 6, and Monday, June 12. The commission meetings are open to the public either in person or on Zoom. To view the 2023-2036 CFP or to view meeting links, go to wcfd5.com/ newsflash.