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Homer Township FPD loses bid for bond sale
The Southtown Star recently published an article highlighting another fire district struggling to secure additional funding.
Bob Tutko, the chief of the Homer Township Fire Protection District, shared some sobering news: Illinois allows antique vehicle plates for cars and trucks that have been on the road for more than 20 years. He joked that his department might need one for their 19-year-old tanker truck—if it lasts that long. The district had hoped to replace the aging vehicle if voters had approved a $4.7 million bond last week, which would also have funded repairs at the district’s three stations.
Unfortunately, the bond didn’t pass, and now the district is forced to delay much-needed upgrades and equipment purchases. Chief Tutko said they’ll have to make tough budget cuts, including possibly eliminating free child car seat checks, which require costly training for staff.
“Things are breaking down faster than we can afford to fix them,†Tutko said. The economic downturn has hit hard, with property values dropping significantly over the past few years. As a result, the district lost $2 million in property tax revenue. Without voter approval, they’re limited in how much they can increase their tax levy.
The recession also played a role in halting plans for a major mall near U.S. 6 and Cedar Road, part of which would have been in the Homer district and generated substantial tax revenue. Residential developments along Cedar Road were also put on hold.
In Homer, nearly half of the 20-square-mile area lacks fire hydrants, making the tanker truck essential. However, the 3,000-gallon-capacity truck is frequently in the shop due to its age. The district used to have two such vehicles, but the other was retired because it was too old. The current repair shop won’t guarantee work on the remaining truck due to its condition.
“It’s basically rotting from the inside out,†Tutko said. A new truck would cost $325,000, and the district is waiting to find out if it qualifies for a government grant to replace it.
The district’s treasurer recommended setting aside $500,000 annually to fund future replacements and maintenance, but last year they managed to save only $25,000. Revising the firefighters’ contract helped cut overtime costs by $375,000, but Tutko warned that there are limits to how much more they can trim without risking public safety.
Thanks, Dan.