Littleton council endorses South Metro Fire Rescue 3‑mill property‑tax request; vote 5–1

Littleton City Council voted 5–1 on Oct. 7 to adopt a resolution supporting South Metro Fire Rescue Fire Protection District’s request for a 3‑mill increase in property tax, a measure to appear on the Nov. 4 ballot as Ballot Issue 7A.

The council considered financial information presented earlier by South Metro and summarized by the city attorney. The city attorney said the district projects a 2026 shortfall of $16 million and an almost $270 million shortfall over 10 years if current funding and cost trends continue. The proposed increase would raise the district’s levy from 9.25 mills to 12.25 mills. The city attorney noted that a homeowner with an assessed value that equates to a $750,000 market value would pay roughly $11.72 more per month if the increase passes, about $140 a year.

Council members who supported the resolution framed the vote as a public‑safety and fiscal‑stability measure. “It is our responsibility to be clear about when we think there are measures in front of the voters that are good for the community,” Council member Reichert said during debate. Council member Joel Zink said he supported the district’s choice of a property tax increase rather than a sales tax because property tax revenue is more consistent for an essential service.

Council member Pat Driscoll said he was uncomfortable the council was taking a position that could influence voters’ decisions and voted against the resolution. Otherwise, council discussion emphasized the district’s need to maintain response times and equipment procurement amid rising personnel and equipment costs.

The resolution urges Littleton residents to vote yes on Ballot Issue 7A. The measure will still be decided by the electorate on Nov. 4.