Excerpts from the Chicago Tribune: The Newport Township Fire Protection District is once again proposing a tax increase to modernize its equipment. A referendum will be on the ballot on March 15, asking voters to approve an additional 0.132 cents for every $100 of a home’s assessed value—same as last year’s proposal, which failed with only 44% of the vote. If approved, homeowners with a $100,000 property would pay about $43.75 annually to the fire district, according to Fire Chief Mark Kirchhoffer. Fire taxes have not been raised in over two decades, and the chief says the funding is essential to replace aging equipment. He pointed out that home values in the township dropped significantly—from $268.8 million in 2009 to $188.8 million in 2015—leading to a loss of around $80 million in taxable value. This has left the fire district with just $1.25 million in annual revenue, while their budget exceeds $1.9 million. "Our tax rate would work if we had something to tax," Kirchhoffer said. "I understand people don’t want taxes to go up, but I live here too. I want an ambulance at my door if I need it. You can’t do this much cheaper than we’re doing it. People deserve good fire protection, and we’re trying to be smart with our money." If the referendum passes, the funds will go toward replacing outdated equipment. According to National Fire Protection Association guidelines, fire engines should be replaced every 25 years. The district currently operates engines purchased in 1989, 1995, and 2000, along with a tanker from 2000. All firefighters need new gear, and the district plans to replace two heart monitors and one ambulance. The fire district covers 2,300 structures across 33 square miles, serving parts of Beach Park, Old Mill Creek, Wadsworth, and unincorporated Lake County. It has 38 personnel on duty. The area is 40% residential, 35% farmland, and 25% owned by the Forest Preserve. A small portion is commercial or industrial. Ninety-five percent of the district’s coverage lacks public water infrastructure, which means the department must rely heavily on tankers. “People don’t realize we need more tankers than other departments because there are no water mains,†Kirchhoffer explained. In addition to local calls, the district responds to accidents on Interstate 94. However, the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority does not reimburse for these emergency services. While the district earns some income from ambulance fees, recent changes in healthcare laws and insurance policies have reduced reimbursements, despite maintaining the same level of service. Cosmetic Jar,Square Glass Jar,Childproof Glass Jar,Custom Proof Glass Jar XUZHOU NORTH STAR PACKING PRODUCTS CO.,LTD , https://www.xzns-group.com