Renton Fire Thanks Voters For 'Overwhelming Support'

RENTON, WA — Renton's fire chief took to social media Wednesday after early ballot results showed a groundswell of support to renew the Renton Regional Fire Authority's fire benefit charge, which currently funds roughly 40 percent of the agency's operating budget.

"Thank you, Renton, for your vote of confidence on Proposition 1," said Steve Heitman, Renton RFA's fire chief. "Based on initial returns, the proposition appears to be passing with strong support. The election won't be certified until later this month, but we do not want to wait until then to say thank you."

Renewing the fire benefit charge for the next 10 years will help the RFA maintain a stable source of funding, help to pay for staffing, equipment and community outreach programs, and support plans to rebuild Fire Station 16. While plenty of ballots are left to count, the measure was passing with more than 80 percent approval in early returns.

"Your support is crucial in maintaining the level of fire and life safety services our community needs and deserves," Heitman said. "To all, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping us to continue to make Renton safer, healthier and stronger. We are honored to serve you today and into the future."