Mill Creek's City Council is set to vote on a resolution for annexation into South Snohomish County Fire & Rescue, potentially reducing property tax collections by $4. 3 million if approved in the upcoming special election. This resolution arises from the city's inability to renew its existing fire and EMS contract without incurring substantial cost increases, which would almost double current fees for property owners. Interim City Manager Martin Yamamoto stated that annexation represents the most economical option while maintaining service quality. Currently, Mill Creek residents enjoy significantly lower costs for fire and EMS services compared to their neighbors, paying $0.

88 per $1,000 in assessed property value, versus an average of $2. The proposed annexation would increase this rate to $1. 51 per $1,000, but the City Council plans to mitigate the impact by reducing the general property tax levy by $2. 6 million and eliminating the EMS levy. South County Fire's funding model, which includes a lower fire levy rate and a fire benefit charge based on property size and risk, is designed to ensure sustainable service delivery.

Public input is welcomed as the council prepares for the vote on February 15, 2022, with the potential for the annexation to be included on the April 26 ballot. More details can be found on the City’s website, emphasizing transparency and community engagement in this significant local decision.