South Whidbey residents will have a chance this Friday to weigh in on whether the fire district should place an important issue on the August ballot.

South Whidbey Fire/EMS has been requesting funds in the form of a levy lid lift in order to hire additional emergency personnel and to replace aging apparatus.

These funds would also help alleviate costs from COVID-19, according to a press release. Fire Chief Rusty Palmer said the pandemic increased the department’s costs because of additional supplies and equipment that are needed.

Several volunteers, which the fire district heavily relies on, have also been placed on medical leave because of underlying health conditions.

If the resolution for the levy passes at the upcoming meeting, voters will be asked to approve a 30-cent increase, from 65 to 95 cents per $1,000 of assessed property.

The press release states that the lid lift would last for six years, and cost approximately $10 per month for the owner of a $400,000 home.

A virtual board of commissioners meeting, open to the public, is 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, April 24. People can participate by accessing the meeting from any phone by dialing 1-866-899- 4679 and entering passcode 130-035-077#.