THE SAN DIEGO CITY COUNCIL UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED some changes to a tax-proposal measure last night that will clear the way for a ballot initiative in November creating a new parcel tax dedicated to fire protection upgrades.
They are expected to pass the measure today in a final vote on the program. After agreeing to some compromises and refinements, they are presenting a plan to collect $52 from most land owners in the county and generate about $50 million a year. Half the money would create the San Diego Regional Fire Protection Agency and pay for reserve fire engines, water bombers and other regional equipment. The other half would be given to local fire agencies.
The impetus for this additional tax was the combined destructions caused by the massive wildfires in 2003 and 2007. In order to pass, the measure has to garner 2/3 of the votes on the November ballot. Competing with the plan are several other tax proposals and many people think that it will have a difficult time getting enough support.
This plan has nothing to do with the continuing debate over consolidating the outlying departments in the County that has been ongoing for years.
The San Diego Union-Tribune has this latest REPORT.
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