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Owens Crossroads holds public hearing on proposed 3‑mil ad valorem tax for fire protection
Summary
Owens Crossroads held a public hearing on a proposed 3‑mill ad valorem property tax intended to fund apparatus replacement, PPE, radios and capital planning for the fire department; residents generally supported the idea but pressed for budget detail and clarity on the tax’s duration.
Owens Crossroads city leaders held a public hearing on a proposed 3‑mill ad valorem property tax designed to create a steady funding stream for the city’s fire protection services, including replacing aging apparatus, buying personal protective equipment and upgrading radios.
A presenter outlined the proposal’s goals, saying the levy would support apparatus purchases, operational equipment and future capital planning to keep the department ready as the city grows. The presenter noted one frontline pumper is 26 years old and cited recurring replacement needs for hose, nozzles, thermal imaging cameras and other tools.
Michael Wilson, a resident who identified himself during public comment, said he supports ensuring the fire department is well funded but asked for greater budget transparency before voters decide. "I fully support the fire department," Wilson said, and added he had submitted 39 detailed questions; the council informed him that those questions would be answered by email this week.
Resident and former volunteer Scott Ford said he also supports the department but pressed the council for clearer math. "If 3 mil is gonna be a $100,000, but our [budget needs] are much larger, I need to know where that other $600,000, $750,000 is coming from," Ford said, and asked for information on grant-seeking and fundraising and for the department’s ISO insurance rating projection over an eight‑year period.
Sean Ganim, another resident, asked whether the levy applies only to property tax (the presenter said it is strictly property) and whether the proposal’s time limit—discussed as running from 2027 to 2033—would undermine long‑term sustainment. "If we buy a new pumper, that's still going to age at some time down the road," Ganim said, and asked whether the council would provide a plan for modernization beyond the proposed sunset and whether excess revenue would trigger tax relief.
Longtime resident Kenny Mitchum said he supports the levy, arguing the city’s rapid growth requires additional investment in emergency services. "I've lived here in Owens Crossroads for about 35 years now ... I'm in full support of it," Mitchum said.
Council commentary during the hearing emphasized fiscal responsibility alongside support for the department. Councilman Claude Lang told residents that a September vote on the proposal would be expected to generate roughly $100,000 per year if approved and urged community backing as the city plans for growth.
No final vote on the levy was taken at the hearing. The public comment period closed after questions and answers; the record shows the council will follow up with written responses to detailed questions submitted by residents. The council then moved to adjourn, with members recording assent to end the meeting.
