Funding Our Future Together
Let’s Talk About Our Budget
Arvada Fire Protection District has a long history of responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. However, beginning in 2027, rising costs and increased demand will likely begin to affect our ability to maintain current service levels. We want your input before any decisions are made by the District to potentially either impact services or pursue new tax revenue.
In 2010, the District asked voters for a property tax increase – this was successful in raising the mill from 9.48 to 14.71. The District has not asked voters to approve a new tax increase since 2010, with two exceptions:
- In 2024, voters in the former Fairmount Fire Protection District approved a mill levy increase to match Arvada's — a successful merger that reduced costs and benefited the entire community.
- Voters approved a measure to de-Gallagherize the District's property tax assessment in 2018. This allows the District to adjust its mill levy to account for decreases in the Residential Assessment Rate (RAR) set by the State. However, this was curtailed to some extent by State legislation in 2024 (HB24B-1001) which set revenue growth at 10.5% over any two-year period limiting the District's ability to overcome shortfalls through a previously accepted method.
Expenses have increased across the board including equipment, vehicles, training, and medical supplies. At the same time, emergency call volume grows each year — driven by more medical emergencies, greater wildfire risk, and higher training requirements. Learn more on our Services and Demand pages.
To maintain current service levels without cuts, the District may consider pursuing one of these two options:
- Sales Tax (1%) — Would generate approximately $23.1 million annually. Recent state legislation (SB24-194) now allows fire districts to pursue this option.
- Exemptions would apply to groceries, prescription medications, diapers, school activities, and all other categories exempt under state sales tax law. Visit the Colorado State Department of Revenue for details.
- Property Tax (7.25 mills) — Would also generate approximately $23.1 million annually, equal to an increase of $45.31 per year for every $100,000 of assessed home value.
* Exemptions would apply to groceries, prescription medications, diapers, school activities, and all other categories exempt under state sales tax law. Visit the Colorado State Department of Revenue for details.
Here is a side-by-side comparison of the two revenue options.
What Would Either Option Fund?
New revenue from either one of these two options would support:
- Firefighter and paramedic staffing levels to safely and efficiently respond to emergencies.
- Wildfire mitigation efforts and community education.
- Recruiting and retaining firefighters and paramedics.
- Emergency vehicles and equipment, and modern facilities to better protect the public and first responders.
- Improving firefighter health and wellness programs such as early detection and treatment for cardiovascular conditions and cancer; mental health support; and mandatory fitness training and standards.
