By Nina Culver
The Spokesman Review
SPOKANE, Wash. — There were more than a few sighs of relief at some local fire stations after the results of last week’s primary election were announced.
Spokane County Fire District 9 and the Spokane Valley Fire Department both had replacement maintenance and operations levies on the ballot that accounted for more than half their annual budget. Both levies passed with flying colors, getting about 68 percent of the vote.
“We were pleased, very pleased,” said Valley Fire Chief Mike Thompson. “I was right online at 8:45 when they posted the first results.”
Thompson confessed to a certain amount of relief as well. The fire department has always been well supported by the community, but thetroubled economy created some uncertainty about whether the levy would pass, he said. “It was the fear of the unknown.”
The Spokane Valley Fire Department’s firefighter’s union went all out in support of the levy, purchasing billboards and airing a television commercial. They also stood on busy street corners and waved signs supporting the levy.
District 9 Fire Chief Bob Anderson said he was pleased with the levy results.
“At least for the next couple of years we’re able to plan on continuing the existing services to the community,” he said. “To have that level of support in these tough economic times is amazing and very appreciated.”
Copyright 2012 Spokane Spokesman-Review