HILLIARD, Ohio — Voters passed a levy Tuesday night that will generate just over $9 million a year for the Norwich Township Fire Department.
The 4.9-mill permanent levy will cost homeowners $172 per year for each $100,000 in property valuation.
According to a letter that was sent out to residents in January, the money will be used to increase staffing levels, add a fourth ambulance, a second ladder truck and help construct a fourth fire station.
Norwich Township Fire Chief David Baird said in the letter that the cost of trucks and equipment has increased and with the growth in the area, the department needs to add personnel.
A fire engine in 2013 cost taxpayers just under $470,000. A new engine today costs around $1.2 million. An ambulance 10 years ago costs about $211,000. That cost today is about $324,000.
In his letter, the chief said the fire department responded to 4,740 calls 10 years ago. In 2023 there were 6,998 calls for service.
The last levy in the township was passed in 2013.
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