In response to growing demand for emergency services driven by population growth and higher-density development, South King Fire & Rescue has introduced a Fire Benefit Charge (FBC) to stabilize funding and ensure continued service.

Voters approved the FBC with a 65.28% yes vote in August, 2024.

The FBC shifts the funding model away from relying solely on property taxes to a fee-based structure calculated on factors such as structure size, property use, and fire risk. According to South King Fire, this method ensures a fairer distribution of costs.

Key Features of the FBC:

  • The FBC is not a tax but replaces part of the property tax collection.
  • Property tax collection is reduced from $1.50 per $1,000 of assessed value (AV) to $1.00.
  • The FBC eliminates the need for the Maintenance & Operations Levy, which cost $0.13 per $1,000 AV in 2024.
  • These reductions amount to a $0.63 per $1,000 AV decrease overall.
  • Single-family homeowners often pay less under the FBC.

Despite the financial benefits touted by South King Fire, the FBC has sparked mixed reactions among community members, with some expressing confusion and frustration.

Mixed Reactions on Social Media

“It’s a ridiculous fee, particularly in the manner it was comprised and calculated. Dishonest,” wrote Amy France on Facebook. “We have survived without this fee since birth living here. It’s another fee on top of all others.”

Brad Chaney from South King Fire responded, explaining that the FBC is calculated on the gross square footage of all structures, including basements, garages, and accessory structures, as determined by the King County Assessor’s Office. He directed residents to resources for verifying square footage accuracy.

Others, like resident John Mannard, voiced support:

“I will be paying a little less overall after the lowering of the property taxes. Our Emergency Responders need a steady, predictable source of funding to continue providing excellent services,” he commented.

Clare Parfitt raised concerns about disparities in how the FBC applies to condos versus single-family homes, stating:

“Why are condo owners being charged twice as much for one-third the amount of space? A house could have much higher fire risk if there are smokers or hazardous chemicals stored in the garage.”

Some residents, such as Koki Osborne, noted discrepancies in their property’s assessed square footage and have submitted corrections.

Ensuring Accurate Calculations

South King Fire encourages property owners to review their assessed square footage and submit any discrepancies via their website. “We understand there are questions and concerns, and we are here to help clarify the process,” said a spokesperson.

For more information on the Fire Benefit Charge and how it impacts residents, visit South King Fire’s website.

About South King Fire

South King Fire & Rescue serves several cities and communities in South King County, Washington, including:

  • Des Moines
  • SeaTac (specific areas within its jurisdiction)
  • Federal Way
  • Kent (specific areas within its jurisdiction)
  • Portions of Auburn

Additionally, South King Fire provides services to nearby unincorporated areas of King County.