Prop 414: Voters Face a Crucial Decision to Enhance Tucson Fire Department

The Tucson Fire Department is poised for a significant boost in resources if Proposition 414 receives voter approval. This initiative proposes a half-cent increase in the sales tax over the next decade, generating funding for essential public safety and social programs.

Mail-in ballots were dispatched to Tucson voters on February 12, with in-person voting available at various centers across all wards on March 11 for those who prefer that option or have misplaced their ballots.

The tax is projected to raise approximately $80 million annually, totaling $800 million over the next ten years. Of this amount, about two-thirds is earmarked for public safety, while one-third will support initiatives aiding low-income residents, those battling opioid addiction, and the homeless.

This funding will enable the construction of two new fire stations: one on the Northwest Side estimated at $12 million and another on the Southeast Side to be shared with a new police station, costing about $44.3 million. Additional funds will also be allocated for essential staffing and equipment at these facilities.

“We haven’t added an infill station to the department in over two decades,” remarked TFD Deputy Chief Paul Moore, emphasizing the importance of response times in underserved areas of the city.

A $10 million investment will enhance existing fire stations, reflecting a new understanding of the health risks associated with firefighting. “The actual work of being a firefighter is carcinogenic,” noted Moore, underscoring the need for modern facilities.

A new $2 million ladder truck will address the increasing number of high-rise constructions, particularly around the University of Arizona area, and will also be suitable for swift-water rescues, according to Moore.

Previous funding from Prop. 101, a temporary half-cent sales tax, facilitated renovations and equipment purchases but lacked resources for new station construction or significant staff increases. Currently, Tucson Fire Department’s personnel count stands at approximately 645.

While the proposition has garnered some opposition, particularly from business coalitions like the Tucson Metro Chamber and Southern Arizona Leadership Council, there is no contention surrounding the Fire Department funding. Many agree on the necessity of enhanced public safety resources, although they oppose the sales tax route for such developments.

Liz Casey, a homeless advocate, expressed concerns regarding the distribution of funds, specifically criticizing the allocation favoring the Police Department over homeless services, but remains supportive of the Fire Department funding.

Proposition 414’s funding proposals include a significant investment in public safety operations, encompassing new personnel, equipment, and upgraded facilities for both police and fire departments. Additionally, services supporting vulnerable populations—such as job training and housing assistance—constitute a vital portion of the plan.

The funding breakdown outlines approximately $246 million for capital investments in first responders, $182 million for personnel increases, and $140 million for affordable housing initiatives. Funds are also set aside for community resilience programs and technological advancements to improve safety measures.

If approved, the sales tax rate in Tucson would rise to 9.2%, a revision from the current rate of 8.7%. This includes various components for state education, transportation, and city operations, with plans for future renewals of expiring taxes already in the pipeline.