The Edmonds City Council is preparing to review a crucial proposal to annex into South County Fire, aimed at securing essential fire and emergency medical services by the end of 2025. This proposal comes after South County Fire announced it would terminate its existing contract, initially set to last until 2030, due to increasing demands from Edmonds' rapidly growing population. The council is considering three options: proceeding with annexation, contracting with the Shoreline Fire Department, or reinstating the local Edmonds Fire Department, which was dissolved in 2009. Each option is expected to raise property taxes for residents, but annexation is viewed as the most cost-effective, averaging an additional $77 per month per household. In May, the council unanimously supported a resolution to request annexation, highlighting the urgency of the matter.

If voters approve the annexation in a special election scheduled for April, the new service structure could begin as early as June 1 for fire services and August 1 for emergency medical services. The article stresses the importance of community engagement, urging residents to attend a public hearing to discuss the proposed changes. This decision could significantly impact the future of emergency services in Edmonds, marking a pivotal moment for local governance and public safety.