The Town of Washington is seeking a one-time increase to its 2025 tax levy in order to pay for its share of a new Pierce ladder truck for the Eagle River Fire Department.

According to information provided in a newsletter sent out by the town, the 2024 mill rate of $1.14 would increase to an estimated mill rate of $1.36 for the 2025 tax levy, payable in 2026. In other words, property owners would see an increase of an estimated $22 for homes valued at $100,000.

New ladder truck

The department is scheduled to receive its new truck this coming January, which will replace the existing ladder truck, which is 41 years old, and an engine that is 22 years old. It’s expected to have a lifespan of 30 years.

Current manufacturers are producing ladder trucks that are shorter and more maneuverable. The new truck features a single rear axle and is significantly shorter than the current ladder truck, allowing for better access to more locations. It also can still function as a pumper.

The cost of the new truck is $1.4 million, which will be distributed between the fire department, City of Eagle River, and towns of Cloverland, Lincoln and Washington.

The ERFD contribution is $830,000. The municipal costs are based on valuation percentage in 2024, with Washington’s portion being $201,267.
A public hearing on the budget will be held Tuesday, Nov. 18, at 5:15 p.m. at Washington Town Hall, immediately followed by a special town meeting of the electors where the town board will consider its adoption of the resolution.
The proposed budget summary can be found at town-of-washington.org/news.