Othello Looking at Annexing into Adams Fire District 5

It’s not an unusual agreement, smaller, even growing cities that contract with county fire districts for protection and EMS services. Now, Othello is looking at annexing itself.

   Othello Officials Considering Annexing City into Fire District 5

West Richland relies on Benton County Fire 4, while Benton City contracts with  BC Fire District 2.

Since 2001, by contract the City of Othello is protected by Adams County Fire District 5, but due to rising costs, are considering annexing themselves.

City Leaders emphasize no final decision has been made, nor has any plan been made to put this to voters yet.  But the plan would be to annex, or formally move the boundaries for District 5 to include Othello as a permanent part of the District—instead of the contract.

   What Would Happen With Costs?

According to information released by the City:

“Property owners within the Fire District currently pay a fire levy of $0.90 per $1,000 of assessed property value directly to the district. Othello property owners pay the City’s general property tax levy, and the City uses a portion of that revenue to pay the Fire District for service. As the cost of fire service increases, the amount available for other city services is reduced.”

IF the annexation is pursued and completed, then those rates would be extended to all the residents of Othello.  It would help keep costs from rising as fast, and also provide for improved and expanded services. This is crucial at a time when County Fire Districts around the state are challenged by rising costs, expanded service areas, and limited resources.

There will be a public hearing-meeting to discuss the idea, the public is invited, August 10th at 5 PM at Othello City Hall at 500 East Main Street.