Learn about the financial hurdles facing our fire department.

Fire Department Challenges

Staffing Challenges

You may ask, why vote yes. The staff of our Fire and EMS services directly impact on the lives of Sugarcreek Township residents. Whether responding to emergencies, providing life-saving medical care, or protecting property, the work of our fire department staff is essential in protecting our community during the most vulnerable of situations. Our fire department and EMS staff are a dedicated group of professionals made up of men and women heroes who put their lives on the line to protect our community. Help us recruit more staff by remaining competitive with surrounding communities. Help us with the vital equipment needed to their jobs. Do your part in supporting our respected Sugarcreek Township Fire Department–their core values are respect, teamwork, accountability, and involvement!

Ladder showing that Sugarcreek township fire and EMS staff are paid less than other localities.

Source: State Employment Relations Board

Current Fire Department Funding Challenges

A reduction in tax sharing from the State of Ohio; lack of economic growth, rising demands for service, increasing employee costs, medical supplies and equipment; and recruitment and retention of qualified staff requires this levy to maintain current fire and emergency service operational levels. The Sugarcreek Township’s calls for service have increased 60% since our last new dollar in 2016. Since 2021, revenue has not kept pace with our operating budget. In addition to reductions in annual revenue and increases in service demands, labor costs are up over 40% since 2018. Sugarcreek Township needs your help so that our fire and EMS services remain competitive with recruitment.

Graph shows Operating budget increasing by more than annual revenue from 2018 to 2024.
Graph shows calls for service steadily increasing from 2014 to 2024.
Graph shows labor costs increasing from 2018 to 2025 from just under $2 Million to $2.75 Million

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