In response to growing financial pressures, officials from the Wood Dale Fire Protection District have announced their intention to seek voter approval for an additional $1.5 million in property taxes. This proposal will be on the ballot in March, and if passed, the tax increase would take effect in June 2021. With this new revenue, the district’s annual property tax income is expected to rise from approximately $5.7 million to $7.2 million. For a homeowner with a $250,000 property, the current tax payment to the district is around $700, which would increase by roughly $200 if the measure passes.

The decision to put the measure on the ballot followed years of cost-cutting efforts, including using reserve funds, securing grants, and collaborating with neighboring fire districts to reduce expenses. Despite these measures, officials stated that “our operating expenses are going to outpace our ability to generate the needed revenues.”

If approved, the additional funding would allow the district to maintain eight firefighters on duty during each of its three shifts. Last year, more than 90% of the time, only six firefighters were available per shift across both stations.

The district operates two fire stations, both built in the early 1970s. These facilities are essential for covering all areas of the district. Station 69 at 411 Park Lane requires about $450,000 in repairs, including a new roof and HVAC system.

The extra funds would also help replace aging emergency vehicles, as the average age of the fleet is over 11 years, leading to more frequent breakdowns. Additionally, the money would support rising administrative costs, such as significant increases in insurance premiums and higher pension contributions.

The fire department emphasized its long-standing commitment to the community, stating in a letter to residents: “For over 80 years, the district has served, protected, and helped our residents. We now respectfully ask for your consideration on the upcoming March referendum so we can continue to provide the highest level of service.”

To inform voters, the district will host a town hall meeting on February 20 at 7 p.m. at its headquarters station, located at 589 N. Wood Dale Road. This event aims to answer questions and explain the importance of the proposed tax increase.

This would be the first referendum since 2002 for the district, which serves Wood Dale and a small portion of Itasca. Officials believe the measure is necessary to ensure continued public safety and efficient operations in the years ahead.

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