Excerpts from NWHerald.com:
The Wonder Lake Fire Protection District is seeking voter approval for a referendum on the March 17 election ballot, which would increase the district’s property tax levy. Currently, an average homeowner with a $100,000 home pays $153 in taxes to the fire district. If the referendum passes, this amount would rise by $33, bringing the total to $186 per year. The current maximum tax levy allowed is $963,994, while the district is requesting an increase to $1,152,054.
A major reason for the proposed tax increase is the significant rise in insurance costs. The fire department has seen a 52% increase in general and workers' compensation insurance premiums, which are tied to employee wages. With the minimum wage increasing to $15 per hour over the next few years, these costs will continue to climb. At the current tax rate, the fire district’s budget would be largely consumed by payroll, leaving little to cover operational expenses.
Emergency calls have increased by 43% over the past 19 years. However, the district only has three full-time members, which means they often have to send all three personnel to each call—whether it's an ambulance or a fire response. This can lead to long wait times for residents in nearby areas like McHenry or Richmond, sometimes up to 12 to 15 minutes.
Additionally, the district’s equipment is aging. One of their primary fire engines is now 26 years old. Newer models offer better safety features, especially in the event of a rollover, and reduce long-term maintenance costs. Upgrading the fleet would help the district save money in the long run and avoid pouring more funds into outdated vehicles.
If the referendum is approved, the district won’t see any new funding immediately. But after a one-year period, they plan to issue a bid for a new engine. Without the vote, the district may be forced to reduce the number of on-duty personnel, which could further strain their ability to respond effectively.
To offset costs, the fire district has taken steps such as applying for state grants and reducing command staff by not replacing employees who have left. These efforts aim to keep taxes as low as possible while maintaining essential services.
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