Mill Creek Beacon - Your Hometown News Source

The Mill Creek City Council and the board of commissioners for Snohomish County Fire District 7 approved and signed a new six-year agreement for fire suppression and emergency medical services at separate meetings on Tuesday night, Feb. 27.

The actual agreement was delayed by language needed to update the 20-year old contract, according to City Manager Rebecca Polizzotto. The six-year contract will cost city taxpayers $23,776,791.

“This contract is a win-win for the city and Fire District 7,” Polizzotto said. “It provides comprehensive fire services at a cost that is fair to both the city and the district.

Fire District 7 has provided fire suppression and emergency medical services to the citizens of Mill Creek since the city was incorporated in 1983. The agreement ensures that Fire District 7 will continue to provide comprehensive fire services within the boundaries of the city, as well as any areas that may be annexed to the City during the term of the contract.

“We are happy that we have entered into an agreement that extends our long-term relationship with another six year contract,” said Snohomish Fire District 7 Chief Gary Meek. “Having this relationship with Mill Creek supports our efforts to regionalize the fire service. Reduction in borders and duplication of government helps make the delivery service more efficient for our citizens.”

The contract calls for five full-time firefighters cross-trained for fire fighting and emergency medical services as well as one dedicated EMS paramedic. Three of the firefighters will be assigned to the fire engine. Two will be designated to the EMS unit.

The maintenance and operational upgrades of the Mill Creek Fire Station will continue to be funded and performed by Fire District 7. Any future expansions must be mutually agreed upon. Polittozzo said the agreement allows for the city to be an active participant in decisions concerning fire services provided by Fire District 7 as well as a contributor to the strategic planning and budget considerations of the district.