How is Esparto FPD currently funded?

 Esparto FPD is funded through a small portion of local property taxes, miscellaneous fees, direct and indirect funds from Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation and a static special assessment that has remained unchanged since 1997.

Why is Esparto FPD proposing an assessment?

 Esparto FPD’s current revenue is not adequate to continue providing services at what is considered a safe level for the community.  The proposed assessment is intended to provide an ongoing secure funding source for local fire protection services.

Where can the funds collected from the proposed assessment be used?

Revenues received from this proposed assessment remain in the Esparto FPD and cannot be taken away by any other government agency.

What was the failed 2023 proposed assessment for and what feedback was received?

 The 2023 proposed assessment included funding for apparatus and equipment replacement, facilities improvements, as well as hiring additional firefighters.

The feedback we received was:

• That the rates were too high
• Concerns about the 5% annual rate increase
• That Yolo County should provide funds to the district

How is this proposed assessment different than the 2023 proposed assessment?

 Based on the feedback received, this proposed assessment is different by:

• Reducing the rates by focusing primarily on hiring additional firefighters.
• Guaranteeing no annual increase for the first 3 years from adoption
• Reducing the maximum annual increase from 5% to 3%
• Guaranteeing there will be no annual increase after 2034-35 without further vote or balloting

What will this proposed assessment provide?

•  Ensures two paid firefighters are on duty 24/7
• Ensures rapid response to all 911 emergencies
• Increases fire prevention and community risk reductions
• Assists with volunteer recruitment and training
• Passing this proposed assessment, Esparto EFP will receive secured ongoing revenue from Yolo County.

Can’t your Volunteers handle your fire calls?

 Our volunteers are the heart and soul of Esparto FPD, but volunteerism has been and is declining.  Unfortunately, due to the unavailability of volunteers, it is challenging to maintain an adequate response for day-to-day calls. 

What could happen if the proposed assessment does not pass?

•  Emergency services reduced below adequate levels
• Will not receive secured ongoing revenue from Yolo County
• Increase in response times
• Decrease in ISO Rating resulting in higher insurance costs
• Shifting current revenue to cover staffing would result in less money to maintain our equipment

When will the proposed assessment take effect and how do I pay it? 

If the proposed assessment passes, the assessment will be added to the following property tax bill.