Title
Approval of a Resolution Authorizing an Interlocal Agreement Between the City of Olympia and the City of Tumwater for the Study of a Regional Fire Authority
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to approve the Resolution Approving the Interlocal Agreement Between the City of Olympia and the City of Tumwater Regarding the Study of a Regional Fire Authority.
Report
Issue:
Whether to enter into an interlocal agreement with the City of Tumwater to explore the creation of a Regional Fire Authority.
Staff Contact:
Jay Burney, City Manager, 360.753.8740
Presenter(s):
None; consent calendar item only.
Background and Analysis:
In 2019, the City of Olympia participated with the City of Tumwater and other local Fire Agencies in a study to evaluate options for a Regional Fire Authority (RFA). The study looked at opportunities to improve emergency services in the Olympia and Tumwater communities and explored partnership opportunities to provide these services regionally.
Based on the similar risk profiles, histories, and organizational structures of Olympia and Tumwater, the study identified a potential to control costs and improve service delivery, level tax rates across the region, provide greater equity, as well as leverage individual agency strengths, and minimize weaknesses. The study recommended further exploration of an RFA between the two communities.
The proposed interlocal agreement provides the framework for a planning process that looks at the viability of an RFA between the cities of Olympia and Tumwater.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
A Regional Fire Authority may provide options to improve fire service delivery in the Olympia and Tumwater communities. An RFA planning process will engage both communities in this evaluation.
Options:
1. Approve the Resolution Approving an Interlocal Agreement Between the City of Olympia and the City of Tumwater Regarding the Study of a Regional Fire Authority.
2. Direct staff to modify the Resolution or Interlocal Agreement with Council-directed revisions. Any revisions to the Interlocal Agreement will need to be reviewed by the City of Tumwater.
3. Do not approve the resolution and decide not to explore a Regional Fire Authority.
Financial Impact:
The cost of moving forward with a Regional Fire Authority planning process is estimated to cost $150,000 (Olympia’s share). Funding is available through 2020 Year End Savings.
Attachments:
Resolution
Agreement