Critical fire levy awaits Port Clinton voters

PORT CLINTON — Local firefighters need more money to better protect the people they encounter every day, including in life-and-death situations. But, to do so, voters need to place their faith in this department at an upcoming election. On the May ballot, Port Clinton-area voters can expect to see a 3.9-mill, five-year additional levy for operational purposes. In essence, it replaces an older levy expiring this past fall. If approved by a majority of voters in next month's primary: • The owner of a $100,000 home would pay about $137 a year. • Collections, through property taxes, would begin in 2027. • Port Clinton fire would receive about $843,000 a year, more than tripling what the prior levy brought in annually: $259,000. Firefighters, who continue to campaign for the levy's approval, noted they need additional funds to offset costs for this hybrid department, which today consists of part-time and volunteer firefighters paired with full-time firefighters. As of today, the department employs 13 full-time, 17 part-time and 14 volunteer firefighters. Chris Enoch, a Port Clinton firefighter, provided some additional information voters should understand: • The funds: "The levy will support core operational costs, including wages and benefits, equipment replacement, maintenance, training and ensuring the department can safely meet modern emergency response demands." • The ramifications: If the levy fails, then, "The department will continue operating with outdated equipment and limited resources, increasing safety risks for both firefighters and the public." • The pitch: "Emergency services are foundational to public safety. Without sustainable funding, the department's ability to respond effectively will diminish over time, impacting response readiness, equipment reliability and, ultimately, community safety."