Marshfield Voters Approve Public Safety Referendum to Hire Additional Firefighter/Paramedics
MARSHFIELD, WI (OnFocus) – In the April 1 election, Marshfield residents voted to approve a Public Safety Referendum, allowing the city to increase its property tax levy for 2026. The additional funds will be used to hire and retain two full-time firefighter/paramedics for the Marshfield Fire and Rescue Department.
Election Results:
- Yes: 3,765 votes (55.9%)
- No: 2,969 votes (44.1%)
The referendum’s passage permits the city to exceed the state-imposed levy limit by $256,903 annually, restoring staffing levels to those of 2021. This increase addresses a 48% rise in fire and EMS calls from 2000 to 2024, which escalated from 2,390 to 3,543 incidents. The additional personnel aim to improve response times and reduce reliance on overtime hours.
For homeowners, the approved levy increase translates to an estimated annual property tax increase of $13.28 per $100,000 of property value. This equates to approximately $1.11 per month for a property valued at $100,000.
The Marshfield Fire and Rescue Department provides advanced life support and emergency medical services to the city and 13 surrounding municipalities, serving a combined population of about 32,500 people. The department currently operates with 36 sworn positions and an administrative associate from a single station.
City officials and Fire Chief Everett Mueller have expressed appreciation for the community’s support, emphasizing that the additional staffing will enhance the department’s ability to respond effectively to emergencies and ensure public safety.
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Author: News Desk
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