The Mill Creek City Council is actively seeking public feedback on a proposal to annex to South Snohomish County Fire & Rescue, with meetings scheduled for February 1 and 8, 2022. This proposal comes as the current contract with Snohomish Regional Fire & Rescue is nearing expiration, and the city is exploring more cost-effective fire and emergency medical service options. City Manager Martin Yamamoto highlighted that South County Fire provides the same quality of service at a significantly lower cost, which is crucial for residents facing potential increases in taxes. During the meetings, community members will have the opportunity to voice their opinions and ask questions regarding the annexation. The Council plans to make a decision on whether to place the proposal on the April 26, 2022 Special Election ballot during the February 8 meeting.

If the annexation is approved, it would take effect in August 2022, allowing residents to pay South County Fire directly for services starting in 2023. This strategic move could lead to a reduction in the general property tax levy for Mill Creek residents, thereby reallocating funds to other city services. The proposed annexation is positioned as a safeguard for maintaining high-quality emergency services while ensuring financial sustainability for the city and its residents.