Community invited to learn more about improvements from fire levy lid lift

BRUSH PRAIRIE — Voters approved a fire levy lid lift on the August  primary election ballot. As a result, Clark County Fire District 3 has many projects ahead, and they invite the public to take part in the planning.

The first meeting, with a budget presentation, occurs on Wed., Nov. 13 at 6 p.m. The second budget meeting with a hearing is on Wed., Nov. 27 at 6 p.m. Both sessions will be held at Station 31 (17718 NE 159th St in Brush Prairie). 

Fire Chief Scott Sorenson is optimistic about the impact that the fire levy lid lift will have on patient outcomes going forward. 

“We are grateful to our residents for prioritizing emergency services that save lives and property,” said Chief Sorenson. “We are accountable to our taxpayers and look forward to sharing improvements as they’re made.”

The levy lid lift will fund the hiring of additional firefighters to create three-person engine companies – the industry best practice for fire districts of their size. Technical training, including swift water, high angles, and ropes, will decrease reliance on help from outside agencies. Additionally, the funding will replace a fire engine, ambulance, and other equipment that have reached the end of their usable lives.

Clark County Fire District 3 provides fire and life safety services to over 46,000 people in east Clark County, including the City of Battle Ground. Fifty-seven full-time and 10 volunteer emergency personnel responded to 5,175 calls in 2023. Fire District 3 operates under a balanced budget and has a long history of passing its financial and accountability audits by the state. More information on Fire District 3 can be found at www.fire3.org.