2026 M&O Fire Levy
ELECTION DAY: TUESDAY, AUGUST 4, 2026
What to Know
On August 4, 2026, voters will decide the future of funding for Snohomish County Fire District 15 (Tulalip Bay Fire).
If approved, the levy would generate approximately $450,000 annually, providing a local funding source to replace federal grant dollars that will expire at the end of 2026.
The proposed levy rate is $0.62 per $1,000 of assessed property value.
How Your Fire Department Supports the Community
Tulalip Bay Fire Department provides:
Fire protection and suppression
Wildland fire response
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS), ensuring rapid transport and care for medical emergencies
We are staffed 24/7/365 with skilled paramedics, EMTs, and firefighters. Thanks to community support, we’ve established a Marine and Water Rescue program and operate a heavy maintenance facility to service emergency vehicles from across the region.
We also prioritize community engagement. Attending local events, providing education, and getting to know our neighbors helps us deliver quality fire and emergency services while staying deeply connected to Tulalip.
A portion of local property taxes directly funds your fire services through levies.
On August 4, you—our neighbors and voters—will decide whether to support a Maintenance & Operations levy to help preserve the staffing necessary to respond when people call 911. This decision will shape the future of emergency and first responder services for our community.
Why are we voting on this now?
At the end of 2026, we will lose Federal grant funding:
The federally funded Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant, which provides $450,000 annually and funds three full-time positions, expires in December 2026.
What Happens Next?
Voters get to decide:
• Approve the Fire District levy so your Tulalip Bay Fire Department can continue providing the level of emergency response our community expects and deserves.
• Reject the proposal, and the Fire Department will need to make cuts to staff, services, and operations.
By the Numbers
Levy dollars make up 14.4% of the Department’s annual budget.
Financial support from the Tulalip Tribes makes up 55% (through two 10-year contracts covering Tulalip Bay and Quil Ceda Village).
Transport Fees, wildland mobilizations, and grants and donations make up the remainder of the Department's funding.
Proposed levy rate: $0.62 per $1,000 of assessed property value.
Fire District 15 represents around 14% of your property tax bill.
Estimated cost for median homeowners: $322.32/year ($1/day). Based on a median home value of $518,700.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
A levy is a tax collected for a specific purpose, such as funding schools, libraries, parks, and fire services. Find out where your property taxes are going in Snohomish County.
-
Fire & General Services: $1.42 per $1,000.
EMS: $0.499 per $1,000.
-
The M&O levy would add $0.62 per $1,000 of assessed value and generate approximately $450,000 for the Department annually.
Example: For a home assessed at $518,700, the increase would be $321.59/year ($1/day).
-
Your property tax information is available through your county assessor's office. Find yours: Snohomish County Property Taxes and Assessments.
-
Funding supports a regional fire system serving 22,000 residents across 22 square miles, including 46 staff (firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and administrative personnel) at Stations 59 and 60, and a heavy maintenance facility and administrative office.
Core services:
Fire Suppression and Prevention
Basis Life Support and Advanced Life Support and Transport
Training
Facilities and Vehicle Maintenance
-
The Tulalip Bay Fire Board of Commissioners, with input from the Fire Chief, approves budgets annually and ensures funds are used responsibly and transparently.
-
Tulalip Bay Fire is losing grants due to cuts at the federal level. The Federal SAFER Grant funds three full-time positions and will expire December 2026.
-
Exemptions include:
Tribal lands: Real estate and improvements on federally trusted land for tribes or tribal members. Senior citizens and people with disabilities (must meet age/disability, income, ownership, and residency requirements).
Disabled veterans and surviving spouses, low-income individuals, and nonprofit organizations.
-
Yes. Exemptions are not automatic. Eligible homeowners and organizations must apply and provide documentation. Some programs require periodic renewal to confirm eligibility.
-
Ballots will be mailed to residents on July 14, 2026.
-
August 4, 2026. Ballots must be:
Postmarked by Election Day, or
Returned to a drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day.
Pro tip: If voting on Election Day, use a ballot drop box to avoid USPS delays.
-
Drop it in an official ballot drop box.
Mail it (must be postmarked by Election Day; USPS recommends mailing a week early).
-
Visit VoteWA.gov.
-
Visit sos.wa.gov/elections.
Our Process
Plan with Purpose
Together, we outline a path forward that’s realistic, strategic, and tailored to your specific needs.
Collaborate Openly
You’re part of the process. We keep communication open and decisions shared—no black boxes or surprises.
Plan with Purpose
Every project is different. We stay flexible and responsive to make sure the process fits your flow—not the other way around.
Plan with Purpose
When we deliver, it’s not just a finished product—it’s a solution you can trust, backed by real care and effort.
Past Project
The Atlas Project
A bold reimagining of a timeless brand.
Let’s Work TogetherIf you're interested in working with us, complete the form with a few details about your project. We'll review your message and get back to you within 48 hours.