I am a 28-year fire service veteran and retired chief officer from the Auburn Fire Department. I am also a resident in King County Fire District 44, where I served as a commissioner for six years.

I want to take this opportunity to urge my fellow citizens to approve Proposition One in the upcoming election. Like ourselves, our fire district has been a victim of the recession. It is important to remember that we are a volunteer fire department, supported by a small professional staff. The current fiscal situation is dire and support staff have already been laid off.

The reduction in what citizens are now paying for fire protection is a result of lower property values. The approval of this levy will ensure that operations can continue at very minimal levels for the next four years.

I respectfully request your support for this levy.

Monroe S. Shropshire

Auburn