Supporting South Kalispell Fire District is wise move

Voters in the South Kalispell Fire District went to bat for their fire department this week, approving a levy request by a wide margin to provide funding for a second fire station to be built along one of Kalispell’s busiest growth corridors — Airport Road.

No one wants to see taxes go up; this tax increase will mean an extra $100 or so for the owner of a $200,000 home. But it’s the right move for this area. The residential growth in South Kalispell has been brisk in recent years, and the district simply needs expanded fire protection.

The money generated by the levy increase will not only help build a new fire station, but also over the rising costs of firefighting equipment.

The South Kalispell Fire District got a boost for this project with the generous donation of 5 acres from Devar and Vicky Gardner.

It should also be noted the South Kalispell district covers a lot of ground. It’s bounded on the north by the Conrad Complex, on the east by the Evergreen Fire District and Flathead River, to the south by the Somers-Lakeside District and to the west by Smith Valley District and Airport Road.

Investing in expanded infrastructure for fire protection is always a wise decision, and South Kalispell voters should be commended for their financial support.