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Fire commissioners approved a tentative $1,290,070 budget for 2011 Tuesday at their regular meeting.  Despite a tax base that went down from $1,350,941,973 last year to $1,316,397,592 this year, officials say the tax rate will not change, remaining at 98 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value. 

"Some of the other places raised their budget," said Fire Commission Chair Robert Wagner.  "We'll keep ours the same."

Commissioners considered each line item, comparing last year's budget and actual spending, proposed projects for next year, and ongoing debt to set line item amounts for next year.  Certain elements are built into a 20 year plan that will allow for the purchase of new fire trucks as older ones reach the limit of their useful service.

Commissioners include money for capital reserves each year  to pay for building and equipment improvements and replacements.  This planned accrual means that taxpayers are not surprised with large tax rate increases when equipment or building is needed.  This year an addition to Central Station is planned with no impact to the tax rate.

A public hearing is scheduled for October 19th to explain the budget to the public and garner comments before it's final adoption.

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