Proposition 1 Information

What is Prop-1?

Proposition-1 is a ballot measure that was approved by citizens living in the cities of Burien and Normandy Park, which asked them to vote yes or no for capital improvement bonds. These bonds will create funding for two (2) brand new fire stations, which would replace two older, existing fire stations.

The fire district believes that replacement of the two existing fire stations is necessary due to their extensive age, lack of seismic stability, lack of proper up-to-date infrastructure within the stations, and an overall lack of adequate space.

The districts headquarters stations located in downtown Burien (Station 28) has had several additions and modifications over the years. The first portion of the station was constructed in the late 1940’s. In the 1950’s the bay space was doubled, and additional space was created for personnel and administration. The station was again added on to in the 1960’s. In the early 1980’s, the station underwent yet another addition/remodel, where a second story was added and the administrative and operational space was reconfigured. It is this configuration that still exists today.

It would be impractical to consider another remodel to Station 28, as the internal infrastructure of the station is so aged, that it could not accommodate any further changes or additions.

Station-29, which serves the City of Normandy Park and south Burien, was initially constructed in the 1950’s. It has also been added on to over the years, with a renovation/addition done around 1990.

Q & A

Q-What is Proposition-1?

A-Proposition-1 is a capital bond measure being proposed to the citizens who live in King County Fire District 2’s area. The measure, if approved, will raise funds for the replacement of the fire departments two fire stations.

Q-Do the firefighters support this measure?

A-Yes, your professional firefighters support this measure. We believe that the replacement of both stations is necessary in order to properly carry out the mission of the fire department.

Q-How do I know if I’m in Fire District 2’s service area?

A-If you are a resident in the City of Burien or the City of Normandy Park, then you are within Fire District 2’s jurisdiction.

Q-What exactly will Proposition-1 pay for?

A-Proposition-1 will provide funding for two new fire stations—a new headquarters station in Burien, and a new station in Normandy Park.

Q-How much will it cost homeowners?

A-The following table shows how much the measure will cost taxpayers, based on the value of you home.

Q-Why do the existing stations need to be replaced?

A-The two stations condition, capacity and capabilities are well beyond their useful life. Station 28, which is the district headquarters located in Burien, was originally constructed in the late 1940’s. Over the years it has received multiple additions and remodels, with the latest addition in the early 1980’s. Because of its age and location, further additions and/or remodels are not feasible.

Station 29, which serves Normandy Park and south Burien, was originally constructed in the 1950’s, and underwent a substantial remodel in the early 1990’s. However, Station 29’s bay space (the original bay from the 1950’s) is too small and cannot accommodate certain types and sizes of fire apparatus. This severely limits what types of fire engines can be housed at this station.

Additionally, both stations lack the proper seismic capabilities that would prevent it from being damaged or destroyed during an earthquake, as well as lack adequate emergency back-up power that help to keep the stations up and running during disasters. For example, during the Hanukkah Eve Wind Storm of 2006, Station 28’s aging back-up generator failed. This resulted in firefighters having to leave fire engines and aid cars outside in the elements due to the bay doors being inoperative. Further, firefighters returned to a cold and dark station after being out in the storm, helping citizens with numerous storm-related incidents.