The citizens of Mukilteo will have the opportunity to vote on increasing the city’s emergency medical services (EMS) levy this fall.
The projected cost of providing EMS and fire services in Mukilteo in 2026 is $6.4 million. There are two primary sources of funding for these services. Fire protection is funded through general property and sales taxes, while state law allows for a separate EMS levy to fund emergency medical services. Currently, the EMS levy provides $2.1 million annually toward these services.
Fire department salaries, benefits, and operating costs increase at 4-5% per year, while property taxes and the existing EMS levy increase at just 1%. Over time, this creates a gap between growing costs and limited revenue, which is why periodic levy increases are necessary to maintain existing service levels.
The EMS levy would raise Mukilteo’s rate from $0.27 to $0.50 per $1,000 of assessed property value, costing the median Mukilteo homeowner an additional $191 per year. Even with this increase, Mukilteo would continue to have the lowest EMS levy rate of any city in Snohomish County.
The levy would generate $1.9 million in additional tax revenue, of which the Mukilteo City Council plans to allocate $1.4 million to fund existing budgeted fire department expenses and reduce the city’s expected deficit. The remaining $0.5 million would be used for currently unfunded equipment, including Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus and Bunker Gear needed to keep our Fire Department compliant with state and national regulations, as well as for paramedic training needed to attract qualified candidates.
Residents have several options to consider. Approving the levy would maintain current EMS and fire services. Reducing funding could impact service levels across city departments. Another option is exploring a regional fire authority (RFA), which would consolidate services with other jurisdictions. Joining an RFA would require a public vote and could take time to implement.
There are potential benefits to joining an RFA, such as increased training and advancement opportunities for firefighters and EMS personnel. Higher compensation within an RFA might make it easier to attract and retain employees as well. However, these benefits may come at a higher cost. Applying the rates of one local RFA to Mukilteo, for example, would cost citizens $9.2 million, considerably more than current levels.
As the community prepares for this vote, residents are encouraged to learn more about the EMS levy increase; information is available on the city’s webpage. Consider what approach best supports the long-term delivery of EMS in Mukilteo. The outcome will influence how emergency and medical services are funded and delivered in the years ahead.
Tom Jordal, Mukilteo Council President
Councilmember Jordal was elected to a four-year term in 2022. He was elected Council Vice President in 2024, and Council President in 2025. Tom is dedicated to listening to the Mukilteo community and supporting initiatives that further develop its public infrastructure and picturesque seaside atmosphere.
He founded and runs a local business focused on electronic communications and security which he started in 2001. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from University of Washington and a Master’s in Business from Harvard.
Tom is married to Amy Jordal and together they have three high school and college aged children. They enjoy traveling together and spending time outdoors and with friends. He enjoys running, skiing and morning work-outs at the Mukilteo YMCA. Join him for a run most any Saturday at 7:30 am at the HP Middle School outdoor basketball courts.
Author: Lynnwood Times Contributor
