2025 Proposition Fire Bond
"No Tax Rate Increase"
Why is the 2025 Proposition Fire Bond Critical
The Ozark Fire Protection District is dedicated to protecting lives, property, and the environment. As our community continues to grow, so does the demand for modern fire stations, equipment, and resources to ensure fast and effective emergency response.
Since the approval of Proposition Fire in 2021, our district has seen significant growth, adding more than 800 single- and two-family homes, 17 multi-family buildings, and 95 new or expanded businesses and industries. This increasing development has resulted in a growing demand for emergency services. In 2024 alone, our crews responded to 4,302 calls for service—an 8.2% increase from 2023 and a 15% increase since 2021. With the current pace of growth, our fire district must continue preparing for the future to maintain the highest level of service and safety for our residents.
To meet these needs, the 2025 Proposition Fire Bond will allow us to build on the progress made under our 2020 Strategic Plan and 2021 voter-approved Proposition Fire Bond. This $10,500,000 bond proposal will fund critical improvements that enhance emergency response, firefighter safety, and overall community preparedness—without increasing taxes. Instead, it will extend the existing $0.17 tax levy already in place.
Your Vote Supports:
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Enhanced firefighter training and capabilities – Providing advanced education, tools, and hands-on training to improve emergency response.
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Upgraded equipment and resources – Ensuring firefighters have the latest gear, technology, and facilities to protect lives and property.
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Proactive planning for future growth – Expanding resources to keep pace with our growing community and increasing emergency calls.
Your support is essential in ensuring that the Ozark Fire Protection District remains well-equipped to serve our growing community. We look forward to continuing our mission of protecting and serving you.
Completion of Fire Station 1
When 2021 Proposition Fire was approved, the Ozark Fire Protection District consulted with architects to determine the estimated cost of constructing a new fire station.
Since then, construction costs have risen significantly nationwide, affecting materials, labor, and overall project expenses.
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A 25% increase in food prices since 2019
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A 25% rise in single-family home construction costs
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A 50% to 65% surge in steel prices
As of January 2025, the District has allocated $6,500,000 from the 2021 Proposition Fire Bond toward the construction of Station 1. The 2025 Proposition Fire Bond funds will enable a more efficient, timely, and comprehensive project that includes administrative space.
The District remains committed to ensuring this essential infrastructure is completed to enhance emergency response capabilities and better serve our community.
Training Center
Progressive training is essential for firefighters to develop and refine the skills needed to respond effectively to a wide range of emergencies. A state-of-the-art training facility will provide Ozark Fire Protection District personnel with the necessary resources to prepare for fire ground operations, technical rescue incidents, and hazardous materials incidents.
Currently, the District does not have a dedicated training facility or adequate space to conduct critical hands-on training. To meet the training requirements set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Insurance Services Office (ISO), our crews must be taken out of service to train at neighboring districts, including Nixa, Battlefield, Logan-Rogersville, and Springfield. This not only impacts response times but also limits training opportunities.
To address this challenge, the District plans to construct a centrally located training facility, allowing crews to train with other public safety agencies while remaining available for emergency response.
Apparatus and Equipment
As detailed in our 2021-2026 Strategic Plan, the need for a comprehensive fleet and equipment management program has been identified. The 2025 Proposition Fire Bond will ensure the continuation of this plan. This plan identified the need for the following:
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Ladder Truck
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Engine
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Tankers
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Brush Trucks
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Technical Rescue Trailer
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Rescue and Firefighting Equipment
Land Acquisition for Future Station
Your fire district currently serves an area of 110 square miles with three fire staffed stations. There is a critical need for additional fire station to keep up with the future growth. This will assist to reduce response times, increase staffing, and lower insurance rating.