Proposed NBVFD taxing district plan is the wrong move

As a resident of the North Bench area, I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed fire department taxing district ahead of the Aug. 25 public meeting. While I deeply value and support our volunteer firefighters, I believe this taxing district is unnecessary and fiscally irresponsible.

If approved, this levy will increase overall property taxes by 25-68%, with a mandatory 3% increase every year thereafter without further voter approval. This financial burden is being pursued despite the North Bench Volunteer Fire Department reporting conflicting financial data; they ended 2025 with a reported $58K surplus that was later revised to a $20K deficit, yet the Board admitted they are carrying no actual debt. Furthermore, the Board prioritized spending $4,600 on petition fees — 30% of the vehicle maintenance budget — over immediate safety needs.

The push for this district has lacked transparency and representation. The Board moved forward despite a consensus of opposition across three town hall meetings and refused offers from members to pay increased dues, develop a strategic plan, or build a working budget to avoid taxation. Additionally, the petition submitted to the County contains an incorrect legal description and map, leading the County Clerk to question the residency of the signers. Finally, the petition’s name change — removing the word "Volunteer" — signals a shift toward hiring full-time staff that will exponentially increase costs.

We can support our fire department through better management and increased dues rather than a permanent tax mandate.

LEONA MALMQUIST

Bonners Ferry