South Metro Fire Rescue (South Metro) is facing an immediate and significant budget shortfall due to recent state legislation. Without additional revenue by 2026, we will not be able to maintain the high level of fire and emergency services our residents expect and rely on.
South Metro faces a choice — and we’re asking for your input. We can either reduce essential emergency services or consider alternative funding to sustain them.
Last year, the state legislature passed HB 24B-1001 to lower property taxes which significantly reduced funding for fire protection districts across Colorado — including South Metro.
As a result, South Metro expects a $16 million shortfall in 2026 and nearly $270 million over the next 10 years — all while demand for emergency services continues to rise.
Since 2019, demand for our services has grown 20%, and it’s not slowing down.
South Metro is a full-service fire and emergency medical provider protecting 571,000 residents across 287 square miles. We serve parts of Arapahoe, Douglas, and Jefferson counties, 12 municipalities and major business areas including Centennial Airport, Lockheed Martin, Highlands Ranch, 4 Square Mile, and the Pinery.
We’re focused on maintaining the reliable, high-quality emergency services our community depends on. Without stable funding, we may face tough cuts in areas like:
Reduce spending by $16 million to help close the budget gap. Cuts alone won’t be enough and could result in fewer emergency crews, delays in building much-needed new stations, reductions to mental health programs for first responders, and more. This option is not ideal, especially as demand for emergency services continues to increase every year.
Ask voters to approve a modest property tax increase. For example, raising the mill levy from 9.25 to 12.25 would generate about $50 million each year while costing the homeowner with a $750,000 home about $11.72 more per month. That's the cost of one streaming service or one fast food meal.
Ask voters to approve a 0.5% sales tax, which would cost $0.50 (50 cents) for every $100 spent while generating about $50 million annually for South Metro fire and emergency services. For the first time, state law allows fire districts to collect sales tax to support critical services.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
| Name | Communications and Media Center |
|---|---|
| piogroup@southmetro.org |
South Metro Fire Rescue is committed to helping the community it serves, including nearly 300 square miles in Arapahoe, Douglas and Jefferson counties. With 30 stations, South Metro provides emergency and prevention services to approximately 571,500 residents and thousands more who come into our communities to work.
South Metro Fire Rescue is a world-class organization that serves the public by protecting lives and property through our dedication to training, prevention, mitigation, and response.
