Dear Community Members,
Thank You for Supporting the Future of Shoreline Fire. According to King County Elections, as of Tuesday, February 18, with 30.74% of the votes counted, Proposition 1 – the Regional Fire Authority— is passing with over 67.5% voting “yes” to 32.5% voting “no.”
Today, we celebrate a major step forward for our communities. With the passage of the Regional Fire Authority, we are ensuring the long-term stability and effectiveness of Shoreline Fire’s emergency services for Shoreline, Kenmore, and Lake Forest Park. This decision reflects our communities’ shared commitment to public safety, preparedness, and service excellence.
I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who engaged in this process—those who asked questions, attended meetings, and voted. Your support strengthens our ability to serve you and protect our residents when it matters most.
In the coming months, we will continue working to implement this plan with transparency and responsibility, always keeping the needs of our community at the forefront.
Thank you for placing your trust in Shoreline Fire, we are honored to serve.
Chief Matt Cowan
Shoreline Fire Department
Building a Safer, Stronger Future
What is a Regional Fire Authority?
A Regional Fire Authority (RFA) is a special-purpose district designed to enhance fire protection and emergency medical services. By uniting the resources of neighboring fire departments, a RFA delivers faster, more effective responses, improves public safety, and lowers costs for taxpayers.
In February 2025, voters in Kenmore, Lake Forest Park, and Shoreline will have the opportunity to create a Regional Fire Authority by combining the Shoreline and Northshore Fire Departments. This proposal builds on years of successful collaboration, ensuring stronger, more sustainable fire and emergency services for our communities.
Ballot Measure Information
- Ballot Measure Title
- Ballot Measure Explanatory Statement
- Shoreline/Northshore RFA Joint Resolution
- Regional Fire Authority Overview and Benefits
RFA Proposal Information
- Shoreline and Northshore Fire Department RFA Plan
- Understanding How Much You Pay for Fire and Emergency Services – Shoreline Fire District
- Understanding How Much You Pay for Fire and Emergency Services – Northshore Fire District
RFA Resources
The Benefits of Regionalizing Fire Services
Enhanced Emergency Services
- Faster, more effective responses through better coordination and resource sharing.
- Improved technical rescue capabilities in Shoreline, Kenmore and Lake Forest Park.
- Flexible deployment of fire trucks and aid cars based on need.
- Continued firefighter collaboration ensures seamless operations and improved service delivery.
Significant Taxpayer Savings
- $196,000 in annual administrative savings and over $3 million in reduced redundancies by 2026.
- Savings for 100% of homeowners and 98% of property owners in the Fire District.
- Preserves Washington Surveying and Rating Bureau Class 2 rating leading to insurance savings and lower levy rates.
Sustainability and Streamlined Management
- Shared resources provide sustainable services, protect property values, and diversify revenue.
- Strengthened grant opportunities for enhancements like a fire/rescue boat for Lake Washington.
- Streamlined administration eliminates duplication, enabling more efficient resource management.
Together, we can ensure a safer,
stronger future for our communities.
By forming a Regional Fire Authority, we are investing in a more unified and efficient fire and emergency medical service system—one that prioritizes safety, sustainability, and fiscal responsibility. This collaboration strengthens our ability to respond to emergencies, protects property values, and enhances the quality of life for every resident.
We know you have questions, and we’re here with answers!
This short video explains how an RFA works, why it’s important, and how it can strengthen emergency services for our community.
Watch now to learn how Shoreline Fire is working to ensure faster response times, improved coordination, and sustainable funding for public safety.
Together, we can build a safer future for Shoreline!
Sign Up to stay connected with the proposed Regional Fire Authority (RFA) ballot measure for Shoreline and Northshore Fire Departments.
