Editor’s note: The Portager publishes letters to the editor from the community. The opinions expressed are published not because they necessarily reflect those of the publication but because we feel they contribute meaningfully to the local discourse on matters of public interest.
As Fire Chief of Brimfield Township, I would like to share information regarding Issue 27, the proposed 1.95-mill Fire and EMS levy on the November 3 ballot.
In 2010, our department responded to 1,243 calls. In 2025, that number reached 2,078, an increase of nearly 67%. During that time, staffing grew from four firefighters assigned to each shift to seven. Today, our department has 21 line firefighters across three shifts, plus the Fire Chief.
Our last increase in operating millage occurred in 2014, when the EMS levy increased by 0.85 mill. In 2018, four existing fire levies were combined into one continuing 4.9-mill replacement levy. The existing 1.7-mill EMS levy was renewed in 2024. The separate building bond approved in 2020 cannot fund daily operations.
There are many challenges that come with a growing community and Fire Department, and one is our aging fleet of fire trucks and ambulances. A new fire engine can cost $1 million or more, while an ambulance can cost several hundred thousand dollars. As vehicles age, maintenance costs increase and replacement becomes necessary.
As Fire Chief, I believe planning for these expenses years in advance is essential. We cannot wait until a vehicle breaks down to figure out how to replace it. We must balance future purchases with staffing, training, equipment, maintenance, and everyday expenses while preparing for our township's continued growth.
Issue 27 proposes an additional 1.95 mills for five years, generating approximately $930,323 annually. Based on county auditor market value, the estimated cost is $68 per year ($5.69 monthly) for a $100,000 home, $136 per year ($11.38 monthly) for a $200,000 home, or $204 per year ($17.06 monthly) for a $300,000 home.
I take managing your Fire Department and its finances seriously. My goal is to provide the services our residents expect while making responsible financial decisions for today and the future.
I welcome questions about the levy or our department.
— Ron Goodspeed, Fire Chief, Brimfield Township Fire Department